Growli
Let's go

Pet safety

Is Variegated Elephant Bush toxic to cats?

Portulacaria afra 'Variegata'

Non-toxic to cats

No — variegated elephant bush is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats. It is a sensible choice for a home with a cat; a curious nibble will not poison them, though no plant is meant to be eaten. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Widely documented as non-toxic to cats and dogs, and the green form (spekboom) is even edible and browsed by livestock. Note that Portulacaria afra is not individually enumerated on the ASPCA list, so this rests on broad horticultural consensus rather than a specific ASPCA entry; eating a large amount may still cause transient mild stomach upset, so discourage chewing and verify with a vet if concerned.

Is variegated elephant bush toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is variegated elephant bush toxic to cats?

No — variegated elephant bush is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats. It is a sensible choice for a home with a cat; a curious nibble will not poison them, though no plant is meant to be eaten. Widely documented as non-toxic to cats and dogs, and the green form (spekboom) is even edible and browsed by livestock. Note that Portulacaria afra is not individually enumerated on the ASPCA list, so this rests on broad horticultural consensus rather than a specific ASPCA entry; eating a large amount may still cause transient mild stomach upset, so discourage chewing and verify with a vet if concerned.

Is variegated elephant bush safe for cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists variegated elephant bush as non-toxic to cats and dogs. A cat that chews a large amount of any foliage can still get a mild, brief stomach upset, so discourage grazing, but it will not be poisoned.

Is variegated elephant bush toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Variegated Elephant Bush is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full variegated elephant bush pet-safety guide for both species.

What other plants are safe for cats?

Reliable ASPCA non-toxic picks for a cat home include spider plant, calathea, parlor palm, peperomia, and most true ferns. Browse the best cats-safe plants list to check more before you buy.

Full variegated elephant bush pet-safety