Sago Palm Toxicity
Sago Palms are a common decorative plant used both indoors and in landscaping—especially in warmer climates. However, despite their attractive appearance, Sago Palms are extremely toxic to dogs and cats. Ingestion of even a small amount—especially the seeds—can result in life-threatening poisoning.
Why Is Sago Palm Toxic to Pets?
Sago Palms (Cycas revoluta) contain several toxic compounds, with cycasin being the most potent. Once ingested, cycasin is metabolized into a substance that causes widespread cellular damage—primarily targeting the liver, but also affecting the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems.
All parts of the plant are toxic, but the seeds (also called “nuts”) contain the highest concentration of toxins and are the most commonly ingested part by pets.
Where the Risk Lies
Seeds/Nuts: The most toxic part. Ingestion of just one seed can be fatal to a medium-sized dog.
Leaves & Roots: Also toxic, though less so than the seeds. Even chewing on a leaf can cause illness.
Indoor and Outdoor Danger: Found both as houseplants and in outdoor landscaping, particularly in southern U.S. states like Florida, Texas, and California.
Symptoms of Sago Palm Toxicity
Clinical signs usually develop within 15 minutes to 12 hours after ingestion, though some symptoms may be delayed up to 24 hours.
Early Signs (GI):
Profuse vomiting (may contain blood)
Diarrhea (often bloody)
Excessive drooling
Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Progressing Signs (Liver and Neurologic):
Jaundice (yellow gums, skin, whites of eyes)
Abdominal pain
Bruising or bleeding (due to impaired clotting)
Seizures
Coma
Untreated, the toxin can cause acute liver failure and death, often within 48–72 hours.
What You Can Do at Home
If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of a Sago Palm:
Do not wait for symptoms. Immediate action is critical.
Identify the plant (take a photo or bring a sample if safe).
Call animal poison control immediately:
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
Do NOT induce vomiting unless explicitly instructed by a vet.
Even if your pet appears normal, early decontamination and treatment are essential to prevent irreversible liver damage.
What to Expect at the Veterinarian
Depending on timing and symptoms, your vet may recommend:
Inducing vomiting (if ingestion was recent and pet is stable)
Administering activated charcoal to absorb remaining toxins
Hospitalization for IV fluids and close monitoring
Liver support medications, such as SAMe and silymarin
Bloodwork to assess liver values and clotting ability
Plasma transfusions or advanced care in severe cases
Treatment may be required for several days, and prognosis becomes poorer the longer treatment is delayed.
Prognosis
Good if caught early, before liver damage occurs
Guarded to poor if liver failure has already begun
Mortality rates can approach 50% in untreated or severe cases
Time is the most important factor—early and aggressive treatment greatly improves outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Because Sago Palms are sold at many nurseries and big-box stores, they are often found in homes and yards without pet owners realizing the risk. If you have pets, it’s best to avoid this plant entirely.
Being aware of the most dangerous toxins in your pet’s environment can save lives. For more emergency information—including common poisonings, emergency preparedness, and what to do when minutes matter—check out our Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies.
