Potential Hazards for Housecats

If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxin, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435

If choosing to have your cat wear a collar, please choose a ‘breakaway’ collar. Breakaway collars are designed with a safety mechanism that releases if the collar gets caught on something (like a branch, fence, or piece of furniture). This can prevent potentially fatal choking or strangulation.

Below is a list of some common plants that are known to be poisonous to housecats. Keep in mind that this list isn’t exhaustive—if you suspect your cat has ingested any plant material, consult your veterinarian immediately. For the most complete and up-to-date information, you can also refer to trusted sources like the ASPCA's toxic and non-toxic plants list. For those of you bringing home kittens around Christmas-time, poinsettias can be very toxic to kittens.

Common Poisonous Plants

Lilies (e.g. Easter, Tiger, Daylilies): Extremely toxic; even small amounts can lead to kidney failure.
Sago Palm: All parts are toxic, with seeds being particularly dangerous; ingestion can result in severe liver damage.
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane): Causes oral irritation, pain, and swelling.
Oleander: Highly toxic; can cause heart abnormalities and potentially be fatal.
Azaleas and Rhododendrons: Can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, cardiovascular issues.
Cyclamen: May cause significant gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
Pothos (Devil’s Ivy): Leads to irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal upset.
Poinsettia: Often cited as toxic—typically causes mild irritation, though reactions can vary.
English Ivy: Can result in vomiting and gastrointestinal distress.
Tulips (especially bulbs): The bulbs contain compounds that may cause drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): Although not a true lily, ingestion can result in oral irritation and digestive upset.
Daffodil: Can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Autumn Crocus: Known to cause severe gastrointestinal distress and other toxic effects.
Chrysanthemum: May lead to vomiting and incoordination.
Kalanchoe: Ingestion can disrupt heart rhythms and cause other systemic issues.
Caladium: Contains insoluble calcium oxalates that can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth.

Important Reminder:

Because reactions can vary by individual and even small exposures can be dangerous (especially with plants like lilies and sago palms), it's best to remove any known toxic plants from your home or ensure they are placed well out of reach of your pets. Always consult your veterinarian or a trusted animal poison control resource if you have any concerns about your cat’s exposure to plants.

Here’s a list of various items—beyond houseplants—that are known to be poisonous to cats. Remember, even small amounts of these substances can cause serious harm, so it’s important to keep them well out of reach. If you suspect your cat has ingested any of these, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison control center immediately.

Foods and Edibles

Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic even in small amounts.
Caffeine: Found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and some sodas.
Alcohol: Can depress the central nervous system and cause severe toxicity.
Grapes and Raisins: Linked to kidney failure in some animals.
Onions, Garlic, and Chives: Can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Xylitol: A sugar substitute in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods; can cause rapid insulin release and liver failure.
Raw Dough with Yeast: The yeast can expand in the stomach, and the fermentation process produces alcohol.
Avocado: Contains persin, which may be harmful to some cats in larger quantities.
Certain Nuts: For example, macadamia nuts have been known to cause adverse reactions.

Medications/Supplements/Household Items

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Extremely toxic to cats, even at low doses, and can lead to liver failure.
Ibuprofen and Other NSAIDs: These can cause gastrointestinal ulcers and kidney damage.
Antidepressants and Other Human Medications: Even small amounts not prescribed for cats can be dangerous.
Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol): Even a small amount is deadly; it causes kidney failure rapidly.
Cleaning Products: Common household cleaners such as bleach, ammonia, and various disinfectants can be very harmful.
Pesticides, Insecticides, and Rodenticides: These products are formulated to kill and can be extremely toxic if ingested or inhaled.
Essential Oils: Oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, citrus, and others—even when diffused—can be toxic if ingested or absorbed through the skin.
Fertilizers: Some garden or lawn fertilizers contain chemicals that can be toxic to pets.
Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Certain lotions, perfumes, and other personal care items may contain ingredients harmful to cats.