Is that plant safe for your pet?

Search any houseplant or garden plant. See its toxicity rating for cats, dogs, and other pets in seconds — plus safe alternatives that look just as good.

Start typing to filter. Results update as you type.

Type a plant name above to check its safety for your pets.

🚨 Emergency: Your Pet Ate a Plant

  1. Stay calm. Note the time and try to identify the plant.
  2. Remove any plant material from your pet's mouth and paws.
  3. Take a photo of the plant for identification.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 (fee may apply).
  5. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.

Keep your vet's number and the poison control number saved in your phone. Having them ready can save critical minutes.

Understanding the Ratings

Safe

Non-toxic

These plants are generally considered safe for the species listed. Your pet may experience mild stomach upset if they eat a large amount, but serious reactions are unlikely.

Mild

Mild toxicity

Ingestion may cause drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. Uncomfortable for your pet but rarely dangerous. Call your vet if symptoms persist beyond a few hours.

Moderate

Moderate toxicity

Can cause significant gastrointestinal distress, lethargy, or skin irritation. Veterinary attention is recommended, especially for smaller animals.

Severe

Severe toxicity

May cause organ failure, seizures, or death. Even small amounts can be dangerous. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if ingestion occurs.

How to Use This Checker

1

Search any plant

Type the common or scientific name of a plant. Results appear as you type, so you don't need to spell it perfectly. Try partial names like "poth" for pothos or "spider" for spider plant.

2

Read the toxicity details

Each result shows which pets are affected and how severely. Expand a result to see specific symptoms, what body systems are involved, and how quickly symptoms may appear.

3

Find safe alternatives

If a plant is toxic, scroll down in its detail view to see safe alternatives. These are plants with a similar look or care level that won't put your pet at risk.

4

Build a safe collection

Use the "Safe Only" filter to browse plants you can confidently bring home. Your recent searches are saved locally so you can pick up where you left off.

A few things to keep in mind

  • This database covers common houseplants and garden plants. If you can't find a plant, it may not be in our current set — check with your vet before assuming it's safe.
  • Toxicity data is sourced from the ASPCA and published veterinary references. Individual animals may react differently based on size, health, and amount ingested.
  • Some plants are toxic to one species but safe for another. Lilies are a well-known example: deadly for cats but only mildly irritating for dogs.
  • "Safe" does not mean "edible." Even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset if your pet eats enough of them.
  • This checker is a reference, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

Common Questions

What's the most dangerous houseplant for cats?
True lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species) are the most dangerous. Even a small bite of a leaf or pollen exposure can cause acute kidney failure in cats. If you have cats, avoid all lilies entirely.
Are snake plants really toxic?
Snake plants (Sansevieria) are mildly toxic to cats and dogs. They contain saponins that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The toxicity level is low, but it's still best to keep them out of reach.
My dog ate a pothos leaf. Should I panic?
Pothos is rated moderate for dogs. Your dog will likely experience mouth irritation, drooling, and possibly vomiting. Monitor closely and call your vet if symptoms seem severe or don't improve within a few hours.
Can I use pet deterrent spray on my plants?
Yes, pet deterrent sprays with bittering agents can help keep pets away from specific plants. Look for sprays labeled safe for both plants and pets. This is a good short-term solution while you transition to a fully pet-safe collection.
How often is this database updated?
We review and update plant entries periodically as new information becomes available. If you notice an error or missing plant, you can reach out through the About page.

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