Dangerous Indoor Plants for Dogs, Cats and other Pets: What Florida Pet Owners Should Know

Peace Lily

Many pet owners love decorating their homes with beautiful houseplants. But did you know that several popular indoor plants can be toxic to dogs, cats, and other pets? At Country Oaks Animal Hospital, we often see cases where curious pets nibble on plants, leading to illness — or worse. Let’s explore the most common dangerous indoor plants for pets and how you can keep your furry friends safe. 

Top Toxic Indoor House Plants for Dogs and Other Pets 

1️. Sago Palm 

• Toxic parts: All parts, especially the seeds (nuts) 

• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, liver failure, and even death 

• Note: Even a small amount can be life-threatening. 

2️. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) 

• Toxic parts: Leaves and stems 

• Symptoms: Oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing 

3️. Aloe Vera 

• Toxic parts: Latex in the leaves 

• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors 

4️. Philodendron 

• Toxic parts: All parts 

• Symptoms: Mouth and tongue irritation, drooling, difficulty swallowing, vomiting 

5️. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) 

• Toxic parts: All parts 

• Symptoms: Severe mouth irritation, swelling, drooling, difficulty breathing 

6️. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy) 

• Toxic parts: All parts 

• Symptoms: Oral irritation, vomiting, difficulty swallowing 

7️. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) 

• Toxic parts: All parts 

• Symptoms: Stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea 

8️. Snake Plant (Sansevieria) 

• Toxic parts: All parts 

• Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea 

Signs Your Pet May Have Eaten a Toxic Plant 

If your dog, cat, or small pet has chewed on a toxic plant, watch for: 

• Vomiting 

• Diarrhea 

• Drooling 

• Lethargy 

• Loss of appetite 

• Difficulty breathing 

• Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat 

👉 If you see these signs, call Country Oaks Animal Hospital or an Emergency Veterinary facility immediately. 

Pet-Safe Alternatives to Toxic Houseplants 

Instead of risky indoor plants, consider these pet-safe options: 🌿 Spider Plant 🌿 Areca Palm 🌿 Bamboo Palm 🌿 Calathea 🌿 Boston Fern 

These add greenery without endangering your pet’s health. 

How to Prevent Plant Poisoning in Pets 

✅ Keep toxic plants out of reach (or better, out of the home) ✅ Train pets not to chew on plants ✅ Provide pet-friendly grass or herbs (like cat grass) ✅ Supervise curious pets, especially puppies and kittens 

Final Thoughts: Create a Pet-Safe Indoor Jungle 

Indoor plants can brighten up any Florida home but always choose greenery that won’t harm your pets. At Country Oaks Animal Hospital, we’re happy to answer any questions about pet-safe houseplants and what to do if your pet ingests something dangerous. 

👉 Call us at 727-785-6524 if you suspect plant poisoning or need advice on keeping your pets safe.