Is Snake Plant toxic to cats?
Is Snake Plant toxic to cats?
Snake plant is commonly reported as toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets that chew plants.
Names to check
Snake Plant common and scientific names
Scientific name: Dracaena trifasciata
Also searched as: mother-in-law's tongue, sansevieria
Common names can point to different plants. When buying or identifying a plant, use the scientific name on the label when possible.
What sources say
Source-backed safety notes
Snake plant is commonly reported as toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets that chew plants.
Gastrointestinal upset is commonly reported for exposure.
Safer alternatives to consider
These are not guarantees for every pet, but they are better starting points than plants marked toxic or high-risk.
Reported non-toxic
Spider Plant
Chlorophytum comosum
Spider plant is commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Cats may still chew it, so watch for stomach upset.
Use caution
Calathea
Calathea species
Calathea and prayer-plant relatives are commonly used as pet-friendlier houseplants. Check the exact name when buying.
Reported non-toxic
Bamboo Palm
Chamaedorea seifrizii
Bamboo palm is commonly listed as non-toxic for cats and dogs. Do not confuse it with sago palm, which is a serious hazard.
Last reviewed and corrections
Last reviewed: 2026-06-13. If you find a source mismatch or a plant-name issue, send the exact plant name and source through the contact page.