Sago Palm
Cycas revoluta · Cycadaceae
How it looks
The Sago Palm is a palm-like plant whose stiff, feather-like leaves spread radially from a short, thick trunk. The leaves are glossy dark green, with narrow, pointed leaflets arranged in opposite pairs. It grows 3-10 ft (1-3 m) tall and, despite its appearance, is not a palm but a member of a living-fossil group (cycads).
Deadly — liver failure
All parts of Sago Palm (especially the seeds) contain cycasin, and ingestion can lead to liver failure and death.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 6–24 hours after ingestion (symptoms may be delayed)
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, melena, liver failure, death
- Action
- Go to a 24-hour animal hospital immediately. Don't wait, even if there are no symptoms.
Guide for parents
The sago palm is popular as a houseplant for its palm-like fronds, but it's one of the most dangerous plants for cats — don't bring it into your home. The whole plant contains a toxin called cycasin, most concentrated in the seeds, so even a small amount can cause liver failure.
Cycads with the same toxin
Cycasin isn't limited to the sago palm — it's also in the related cardboard cycad. The foliage looks different, but they share the same toxin and the same risk, so keep sago palms and cardboard cycads out of your cat's space regardless of the variety.
How cats get exposed
Even a chew or two on the leaves can start liver damage, and the seeds are especially dangerous. If your plant sets seeds, clear fallen ones right away so your cat can't play with or swallow them. When you move the pot or trim the fronds, dispose of any pieces rather than leaving them behind.
How symptoms progress
Signs usually begin within 6–24 hours with vomiting and diarrhea, sometimes with black, tarry stool. The truly dangerous liver toxicity fully emerges 24–48 hours later, and can lead to jaundice, bleeding, and profound weakness. Even if the early stomach signs seem to settle, liver damage is progressing underneath.
What to do right now
If you suspect ingestion, go to a 24-hour emergency vet immediately even without symptoms. The sooner treatment for liver failure begins, the better the outlook. Tell the vet what was eaten — especially whether it was a seed.
Details
- Scientific name
- Cycas revoluta
- Common name
- Sago Palm
- Family
- Cycadaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the seeds)
- Compounds
- Cycasin, BMAA
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Cycadaceae
Related guides
Top 10 Flowers Dangerous to Cats — The Ones You See at Florists
Ten flowers you'll commonly find at florists and grocery stores that are toxic to cats. Check before you receive them, and before you bring them home.
Got a Bouquet? What to Do If You Have a Cat
A bouquet is a lovely surprise — but if you live with a cat, there are a few things to take care of right away. From checking what's in the arrangement to choosing the right vase, here's what actually helps, in order.
Why Cats Chew Plants, and How to Stop It
A cat chewing and tearing at plants isn't just mischief — there's an instinct behind it. Once you understand why, the ways to stop it follow naturally.