Is Cats Safe?

Is Kalanchoe Safe for Cats?

Toxic for cats

No — Kalanchoe is toxic to cats.

Kalanchoe
Photo: Cdpanic at English Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Kalanchoe is listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. The toxic component is Bufodienolides. Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Kalanchoe away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.

Scientific nameKalanchoe spp
FamilyCrassulaceae
CategoryPlants
Toxic principleBufodienolides
Also known asMother-In-Law-Plant, Devils Backbone, Chandelier Plant, Mother of Millions

Signs to watch for in cats

If your cat may have been exposed to Kalanchoe:

  1. Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
  2. Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
  3. Call your vet or a 24/7 line now — Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 · ASPCA 888-426-4435.

Other Crassulaceae plants

Plants in the same family (Crassulaceae) are easily confused with Kalanchoe — check each one:

Cat-safe alternatives

Browse all Plants for cats · or check another item.

Frequently asked questions

Is Kalanchoe toxic to cats?

Yes. Kalanchoe is reported toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Keep it away from your cat.

What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Kalanchoe?

Reported signs include: Vomiting, Diarrhea, Abnormal heart rhythm (rare).

What makes Kalanchoe toxic to cats?

The harmful component reported for Kalanchoe is Bufodienolides. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.

How much Kalanchoe is dangerous to cats?

There is no established "safe" amount — sensitivity varies by cat, and small exposures can still cause signs. Treat any exposure as potentially serious rather than waiting to see how much was involved.

What should I do if my cat ate Kalanchoe?

Contact your vet or a 24/7 animal poison line right away: Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).