"Palms" that are toxic to pets
Sago palm (Cycas revoluta) and cardboard palm (Zamia furfuracea) are cycads, not palms, and they're often sold right next to real palms. Every part of them is toxic to cats and dogs, and eating even a small amount can cause liver failure. If you own one, move it somewhere your pets can't reach, or rehome it. Not sure what you have? Check it here.
Which palm fits your room?
| Plant | Light | Indoor size | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parlor palm | Low to medium | 2 to 4 ft | Dim rooms, apartments, beginners |
| Areca palm | Bright indirect | Up to 6 ft+ | Big bright rooms, a statement plant |
| Ponytail palm | Bright, some sun | Slow, stays compact | Forgetful waterers (not a true palm, but non-toxic) |
Want a tree look instead? Try a pet-safe money tree. For a deeper dive, read our parlor palm care guide.
Palm questions
Are palm plants safe for cats and dogs?
True palms commonly kept as houseplants, like the parlor palm and areca palm, are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. The dangerous exception is the sago palm, which is not a true palm and is extremely toxic.
Is sago palm toxic to dogs and cats?
Yes, severely. Sago palm (Cycas revoluta) is a cycad, not a palm, and every part of it is toxic to dogs and cats. The seeds are the most dangerous. Eating even a small amount can cause liver failure. If your pet chews a sago palm, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away.
What is the best palm for low light?
The parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans). It grows naturally on shady forest floors, handles rooms far from a window, and stays a manageable size indoors.
Which indoor palm gets the biggest?
The areca palm. In a bright room it can reach 6 feet or more indoors over time, which makes it a good pet-safe replacement for large toxic plants like a fiddle leaf fig.
Why are the tips of my palm turning brown?
Usually dry air, soil that dried out completely, or mineral buildup from tap water. Water when the top inch or two of soil is dry, flush the pot with plain water every few months, and trim brown tips with clean scissors.