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Is Zamia Pumila toxic to cats?

Zamia pumila

Toxic to cats

Yes — zamia pumila is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. ASPCA lists cycads (including coontie/Zamia) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is cycasin, plus BMAA and an unidentified neurotoxin; seeds are most concentrated and 1-2 can be fatal. Signs: vomiting, dark stools, increased thirst, jaundice, liver failure. Keep well away from pets and children.

What to do if your cat ate zamia pumila

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move zamia pumila out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of zamia pumila to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten zamia pumila, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is zamia pumila toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is zamia pumila toxic to cats?

Yes — zamia pumila is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists cycads (including coontie/Zamia) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is cycasin, plus BMAA and an unidentified neurotoxin; seeds are most concentrated and 1-2 can be fatal. Signs: vomiting, dark stools, increased thirst, jaundice, liver failure. Keep well away from pets and children.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats zamia pumila?

ASPCA lists cycads (including coontie/Zamia) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is cycasin, plus BMAA and an unidentified neurotoxin; seeds are most concentrated and 1-2 can be fatal. Signs: vomiting, dark stools, increased thirst, jaundice, liver failure. Keep well away from pets and children. 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 zamia pumila.

What should I do if my cat ate zamia pumila?

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.

Is zamia pumila toxic to dogs too?

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

What is a cat-safe alternative to zamia pumila?

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.

Full zamia pumila pet-safety