Is Vazquez's Zamia toxic to cats?

Yes — vazquez's zamia is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Zamia vazquezii, as a member of the Zamiaceae family, contains macrozamin and other azoxyglycoside toxins closely related to cycasin. The ASPCA lists Zamia species (including Zamia pumila, coontie palm/cardboard palm) as toxic to dogs and cats; symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, and potentially fatal liver failure. All parts — especially seeds — are toxic, and ingestion requires immediate veterinary attention.

Zamia vazquezii, as a member of the Zamiaceae family, contains macrozamin and other azoxyglycoside toxins closely related to cycasin. The ASPCA lists Zamia species (including Zamia pumila, coontie palm/cardboard palm) as toxic to dogs and cats; symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, and potentially fatal liver failure. All parts — especially seeds — are toxic, and ingestion requires immediate veterinary attention. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to vazquez's zamia.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Vazquez's Zamia is toxic to dogs as well. See the full vazquez's zamia pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.