Are Succulents Toxic to Cats and Dogs?

Succulents have become a staple in many homes. They are admired for their unique shapes, vibrant colors, and easy-care nature. Because they can store water in their leaves, stems, or roots, these resilient plants thrive in various environments, making them a favorite for plant lovers of all experience levels.

However, if you share your home with pets, it’s essential to consider which succulents are safe for them. While some varieties pose no threat, others can be harmful if chewed or ingested. Creating a pet-friendly space doesn’t mean you have to forgo beautiful plants—you just need to choose wisely and take a few precautions.

Pets and Houseplants: What You Need to Know

Cats and dogs often explore the world with their noses and mouths. This can lead them to nibble on houseplants, sometimes out of boredom, stress, or simply curiosity. While many plants enhance indoor air quality and create a calming atmosphere, some can be toxic to pets if ingested.

Luckily, plenty of pet-safe succulents allow you to enjoy greenery without worry. The key is knowing which varieties to choose and how to keep more harmful plants out of reach.

Safe Succulents for Cats and Dogs

If you’re looking for succulents that can coexist safely with your pets, consider these non-toxic options:

• Echeveria – These rosette-shaped succulents come in various colors and are completely pet-friendly.
• Haworthia – Also called zebra plants, these small, spiky-looking succulents are safe for both cats and dogs.
• Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum) – A trailing succulent with plump leaves that are non-toxic to pets.
• Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera) – A festive, flowering plant that’s safe for your furry friends.
• Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum) – Hardy and easy to care for, these succulents pose no danger to pets.

While these succulents won’t cause serious harm, it’s still a good idea to discourage pets from chewing on them to prevent minor digestive upset.

Succulents That Can Be Toxic to Pets

Some succulents contain compounds that can cause mild to severe reactions in pets if ingested. Here are a few to be mindful of:

• Aloe Vera – Aloe can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in pets.
• Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) – Also called the money plant, the Jade plant can lead to vomiting and coordination issues in pets.
• Euphorbia Species – These include the crown of thorns and pencil cactus, both of which contain an irritating, toxic sap.
• Kalanchoe – Ingestion of the Kalanchoe can cause digestive upset and, in some cases, heart issues.
• Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – While mildly toxic, the Snake plant can still cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

If you suspect your pet has chewed on a toxic plant, monitoring their behavior and contacting a veterinarian is the best course of action.

Signs of Succulent Poisoning in Pets

If a pet ingests a toxic plant, symptoms can vary depending on the type and amount consumed. Watch for signs such as:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or unusual behavior
• Drooling or pawing at the mouth
• Skin irritation or rashes
• In severe cases, tremors or difficulty walking

What to Do If Your Pet Eats a Harmful Succulent

If you catch your pet nibbling on a toxic succulent, quick action can prevent more serious issues. Here’s what to do:

1. Remove the plant – If possible, move it out of reach to prevent further ingestion.
2. Do not induce vomiting – Unless directed by a vet, this may cause more harm than good.
3. Identify the plant – Take a photo or note its name to provide accurate information to your vet.
4. Contact a veterinarian – Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic for guidance.
5. Follow professional advice – Whether it’s at-home monitoring or an in-person visit, follow their recommendations.
6. Keep an eye on your pet – Even if they seem fine, watch for symptoms in the following hours.

Protecting Your Pets From Toxic Plants

As written in the PetMD article: ‘With thousands of varieties of succulents and increased availability of exotic plants, the best way to protect your pets is to identify exactly which plants are poisonous to dogs and cats, and refrain from bringing them into your home.

Before buying a new plant, check the ASPCA’s extensive poisonous plant database as well as the Pet Poison Helpline’s toxicity list.

If you already have plants in your home and garden, look up each one to verify that it is safe for pets.

It’s also important to note that any plant, toxic or not, can cause problems for pets.

Even non-toxic plants can cause gastrointestinal upset when ingested, especially for pets with sensitive stomachs. Other plants can even have chemicals or pesticides on their leaves, causing additional issues with pets. Pets should always be discouraged from eating plants in the house.

It is helpful for pet parents to know the names of every plant in their home—including nicknames and Latin names.’