Toxic to cats · Plants

Is Sago Palm toxic to cats?

Extreme severity No safe amount — No amount is considered safe.

Yes. Even a small amount can be life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • drooling
  • inappetance
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • weakness
  • ataxia
  • seizures
  • tremors
  • lethargy
  • abnormal fluid accumulation in the abdomen
  • abdominal pain
  • jaundice
  • black-tarry stool

How vets treat it

Aggressive decontamination and immediate veterinary treatment are required; survival rate is approximately 50% even with care.

Why it's dangerous

The primary toxin cycasin causes severe liver failure, while additional toxins like BMAA affect the central nervous system.

Toxic compound: Cycasin

Good to know

All parts of the plant are poisonous, but the seeds (nuts) are the most toxic. Liver failure typically manifests within 2-3 days.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to cats

African Wonder Tree Extreme severity Andromeda Japonica Extreme severity Angel's Trumpet Extreme severity Autumn Crocus Extreme severity Everything toxic to cats →

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