Croton: is it toxic for cats and dogs?

Pet safety summary

Pet Poison Helpline identifies Codiaeum variegatum (croton) as toxic to pets, with mild oral and gastrointestinal irritation such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea; sap can also irritate skin.

Croton is a common name used for multiple plants. This page covers the ornamental houseplant Codiaeum variegatum.

Cats

Cat conclusion: Pet Poison Helpline identifies Croton as toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach and contact a veterinarian or poison-control service if exposure is suspected.

Dogs

Dog conclusion: Pet Poison Helpline identifies Croton as toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach and contact a veterinarian or poison-control service if exposure is suspected.

Clinical signs reported by the source

• drooling
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• minor skin irritation after sap exposure

What to do if your pet ate it

Remove access to the plant. Save the plant label or a clear photo, note the part and approximate amount eaten, and contact your veterinarian or a poison-control service. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional specifically tells you to.

Evidence and identity

Scientific name used on this page: Codiaeum variegatum

Source scientific name: Codiaeum variegatum

Source notes: Irritating sap and plant material; Pet Poison Helpline classifies exposure as causing mild oral, gastrointestinal, and possible skin irritation

Source

Pet Poison Helpline plant safety entry for Croton

Source reviewed for Batch 30 on August 2, 2026.

Emergency contacts

ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435

Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661

If your pet is having trouble breathing, collapsing, having seizures, or otherwise appears critically ill, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.