Is ZZ Plant Toxic to Pets?
Yes — ZZ plant is mildly toxic to cats. Yes — ZZ plant is mildly toxic to dogs.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Scientific name
- Zamioculcas zamiifolia
- Toxic compound
- Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
- Toxic parts
- Leaves and stems
- Also known as
- zanzibar gem, zz
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Drooling
- Burning or irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue
- Vomiting
- Trouble swallowing
Dogs (mildly toxic)
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Drooling
- Burning or irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue
- Vomiting
- Trouble swallowing
What to do
If your cat ate ZZ plant
- Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.
If your dog ate ZZ plant
- Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.
Good to know
A low-light favorite that contains the same irritating crystals as pothos. Expect drooling and mouth discomfort rather than serious illness.
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Pet-safe alternatives
Frequently asked questions
Is ZZ plant toxic to cats?
Yes — ZZ plant is mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include pawing at the mouth or face, drooling, burning or irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue.
Is ZZ plant toxic to dogs?
Yes — ZZ plant is mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include pawing at the mouth or face, drooling, burning or irritation of the mouth, lips and tongue.
Which parts of ZZ plant are toxic?
Leaves and stems.
What makes ZZ plant toxic?
Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
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