I’ve always been one of those people who can’t resist bringing home new plants. A pothos trailing off the shelf, a hydrangea blooming in the yard—it just makes the space feel alive. But here’s the thing I learned the hard way: not every plant is safe when you share your home with cats or dogs.
Pets explore the world with their mouths. A curious nibble on a leaf or a paw that brushes against pollen might not seem like much, but with certain plants, that’s all it takes to make them sick. Some cause mild tummy trouble, while others can actually be fatal.
If you love greenery as much as I do, it’s worth knowing which ones to avoid. Here are eight plants that are best kept far away from your pets.
1. Lilies
Lilies are absolutely beautiful—no one can deny that. They’re especially popular during Easter and springtime. But if you live with cats, lilies are among the most dangerous plants you can have indoors.
Even a tiny exposure, like licking a paw that brushed against the pollen, can lead to kidney failure. Cats don’t need to swallow the whole flower; even a little is enough. Symptoms may start as vomiting or drooling but can quickly escalate. Sadly, without immediate veterinary help, lilies can be fatal.
Dogs aren’t quite as sensitive, but lilies can still upset their stomach. With how severe the risk is for cats, most vets recommend avoiding lilies altogether if you share your home with any feline friends.
2. Aloe
Aloe vera is a bit of a tricky one. For us humans, it’s a miracle plant—great for soothing burns and skin irritation. But for pets? Not so much.
The leaves contain saponins and anthraquinones, which can make cats and dogs vomit, lose their appetite, or seem unusually tired. It’s not usually deadly, but it can definitely make your pet miserable.
If you really love aloe, the safest option is to keep it in a room your pets can’t access.
3. Azalea
Azaleas are show-stopping plants, often grown outside for their bright, colorful blooms. But behind the beauty is a dangerous reality.
Azaleas contain substances called grayanotoxins. If a pet eats even a small amount, they might start drooling, vomiting, or having diarrhea. In severe cases, they can suffer from heart problems, tremors, or even fall into a coma.
That sounds extreme, but it happens more often than people think—especially with outdoor pets who roam freely. If you have azaleas in your yard, it’s worth fencing off or rethinking where you plant them.
4. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)
Pothos is the classic “indestructible” houseplant. You can forget to water it, keep it in low light, and it still grows like crazy. But unfortunately, it’s not pet-friendly.
The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals. When a cat or dog chews on the leaves, those crystals cause pain and irritation in the mouth. Common signs are drooling, pawing at the mouth, or vomiting.
The good news? Pothos usually isn’t fatal. But seeing your pet in discomfort is no fun, and repeated exposure could lead to more serious issues. Hanging baskets can help keep pothos out of reach, but if you have a determined cat, it may still be too risky.
5. Sago Palm
If you take only one plant off your list, make it this one. The sago palm looks harmless and is a popular decorative choice, but it’s one of the deadliest plants for pets.
Every part of the plant—especially the seeds—contains a toxin called cycasin. Eating it can cause severe liver damage, blood clotting issues, seizures, and, tragically, death. According to the ASPCA, survival rates are only about 50%, even with aggressive veterinary care.
Because the stakes are so high, vets often advise never keeping a sago palm anywhere pets could reach it.
6. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas are garden favorites, especially in the Northeast, with their big, colorful blooms. But hidden inside is cyanogenic glycoside—the same type of compound that can release cyanide.
Now, before you panic, pets usually have to eat a lot for it to become deadly. In most cases, chewing on a hydrangea just leads to vomiting or diarrhea. Still, small dogs or cats are more vulnerable, so it’s best not to take chances.
7. Daffodils
Daffodils are one of the first signs of spring, but unfortunately, they’re not safe for pets. The bulbs are the most toxic part, but the flowers and stems also contain harmful alkaloids.
Dogs that like to dig are especially at risk since they often unearth bulbs. Ingesting daffodils can cause drooling, stomach pain, irregular heartbeat, and, in severe cases, more dangerous symptoms.
If you want spring flowers without the risk, opt for pet-safe alternatives like sunflowers or orchids.
Also Read: You Won’t Believe the Top Pet Names of 2025
8. Oleander
Oleander is a common ornamental plant with gorgeous pink, red, or yellow flowers. But don’t let the beauty fool you—it’s highly poisonous.
Even a single leaf can be deadly to a small pet. Oleander affects the heart, leading to irregular rhythms, drooling, tremors, or worse. Because it’s often used in landscaping, outdoor pets are at the greatest risk.
If you have an oleander bush nearby, it’s best to make sure your pet is always supervised outside.
Signs Your Pet May Have Been Poisoned
Knowing the plants is one thing, but spotting the symptoms early can make all the difference. Here’s what to look out for:
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy or weakness
- Tremors or seizures
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty breathing
If you ever see these signs and suspect plant poisoning, don’t wait. Call your vet right away. Time matters.
What To Do If Your Pet Eats a Toxic Plant
If your cat or dog gets into one of these plants, here’s what you should do:
- Call your vet immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse.
- Take a sample of the plant. Bring leaves, flowers, or even a photo so the vet can quickly identify it.
- Do not induce vomiting unless your vet tells you to. Some toxins cause more damage on the way back up.
- Keep the number for poison control handy. In the U.S., the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is available 24/7 at (888) 426-4435.
Safer Alternatives for Pet Lovers
The good news? You don’t have to give up plants altogether. There are plenty of pet-friendly options that are just as beautiful and far less risky. Here are a few:
- Spider Plant: Easy to grow and totally safe.
- Boston Fern: Adds a tropical vibe without the danger.
- Calathea: Known for its patterned leaves and pet-safe status.
- Areca Palm: A safe alternative to sago palms.
- African Violet: A flowering plant that’s non-toxic and colorful.
These give you the greenery you love without the constant worry.
Final Thoughts
Plants and pets don’t have to be at odds. With a little knowledge, you can create a home that’s both green and safe. It’s all about balance—choosing plants that make you happy and keep your furry friends healthy.
So next time you’re eyeing a new plant at the garden center, double-check if it’s pet-safe first. Your cat or dog might thank you in their own way—whether that’s curling up peacefully under your fern or not chewing up your favorite flowers.
