Snake Plant: is it toxic to cats and dogs?

Pet safety summary

ASPCA lists Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) as toxic to cats and dogs because of saponins. Reported signs include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Snake plant is also commonly sold as mother-in-law's tongue or golden bird's nest. Modern botanical treatments may place this species in Dracaena, but this page preserves the scientific name used by the ASPCA source.

Cats

Cat conclusion: ASPCA Animal Poison Control identifies Snake Plant as toxic to cats. Keep the plant out of reach and contact a veterinarian or poison-control service if exposure is suspected.

Dogs

Dog conclusion: ASPCA Animal Poison Control identifies Snake Plant as toxic to dogs. Keep the plant out of reach and contact a veterinarian or poison-control service if exposure is suspected.

Clinical signs reported by the source

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea

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 when the source identifies a toxicity risk. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional specifically tells you to.

Evidence and identity

Scientific name used on this page: Sansevieria trifasciata

Source scientific name: Sansevieria trifasciata

Source notes: Saponins

Source

ASPCA Animal Poison Control plant safety entry for Snake Plant

Source reviewed for Batch 30 on August 3, 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.