Common Houseplants That Are Toxic to Cats and Dogs

Common Houseplants That Are Toxic to Cats and Dogs
Written by Pet Care Store Canada Team * Ships from Canada * CAD pricing * 30-day satisfaction guarantee

Many of the most popular Canadian houseplants are dangerous to cats or dogs. Some are merely unpleasant; some are deadly. Here's the list.

Highly toxic (remove immediately)

  • Lilies (cats -- kidney failure from any part, even pollen)
  • Sago palm
  • Oleander
  • Azalea / Rhododendron
  • Castor bean

Moderately toxic

  • Pothos
  • Philodendron
  • Dieffenbachia
  • Aloe vera
  • English ivy
  • Tulip / daffodil / hyacinth bulbs

Pet-safe alternatives

  • Spider plant
  • Boston fern
  • Cat grass
  • African violet
  • Calathea
  • Most succulents (haworthia, echeveria)

If your pet ingested a plant

Call Pet Poison Helpline Canada: 1-855-764-7661, or your vet. Don't induce vomiting unless directed. Bring a sample of the plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the smell of lilies enough to harm a cat?

Skin contact + grooming can transfer toxic pollen. Remove from any cat household.

Are succulents safe?

Most are -- avoid jade plant and aloe. Haworthia and echeveria are safe.

Will a few licks of pothos hurt?

Yes -- expect mouth/throat irritation and vomiting. Vet visit recommended.

Is grass safe?

Yes -- cat grass and pet grass are designed for nibbling.

Ships pet-safe gear across Canada?

Yes -- CAD, tracked CA shipping.

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About the author: The Pet Care Store Canada team is a small group of Canadian pet parents, vet techs, and trainers who curate, test and write everything you see at petcarestore.ca. Tracked Canadian shipping. CAD pricing. 30-day guarantee.

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