Is Snake Plant Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)

Sansevieria trifasciata

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Mild
Mild
Safe

Quick facts

Toxic to dogsYes
Toxic to catsYes
Toxic to horsesNo
Toxic componentSaponins
Onset of symptomsWithin a few hours
Indoor / outdoorindoor

If your pet ate this plant

Both lines are staffed 24/7. A consultation fee applies to each. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.

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Symptoms in dogs

  • Mild vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Drooling

Symptoms in cats

  • Mild vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Drooling

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What to do

Usually resolves within a day without treatment; contact a vet if symptoms persist.

Toxic component and mechanism

The toxic component in Snake Plant is saponins.

What makes this plant different

Snake Plant is marketed as one of the hardiest, most forgiving houseplants available, and that reputation for toughness sometimes gets mistakenly extended to pet safety — it is mildly toxic due to saponins, just at a severity low enough that most cases resolve without veterinary intervention.

Plant identification

Scientific name
Sansevieria trifasciata
Family
Agavaceae
Also known as
Snake Plant, Golden Bird's Nest, Mother-in-Law's Tongue, Good Luck Plant
Typically found
indoor

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See all Agavaceae plants →

The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Plant toxicity data is sourced from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database. If you believe your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control