Are Snake plants (mother-in-law's tongue) toxic to cats?
Yes. Snake plants (Sansevieria / Dracaena trifasciata) contain saponins that cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and drooling.
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Key facts
- Verdict: No — dangerous to cats. Snake plants (mother-in-law's tongue) should never be given deliberately.
- Category: Houseplant
- Onset: Signs can start 0–6 hours — see the full timeline below.
- If it's already happened: Call your vet now, or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, charges apply) — see the emergency steps below.
If your cat has just eaten snake plants (mother-in-law's tongue)
- Move your cat away from the plant. Remove any chewed leaf material from their mouth if safely possible.
- Don't induce vomiting at home.
- Call your vet — snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) contains saponins that cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
- Monitor for persistent symptoms over the next 12 hours; recurrent vomiting or lethargy warrants a vet visit.
- Take a photo of the plant in case identification is needed at the vet.
What's the full picture?
Snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata, formerly Sansevieria) is a common UK houseplant popular because it tolerates low light and irregular watering.
Saponins in the leaves cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea when chewed. Most cats show only mild signs but some develop persistent GI upset.
Safer alternatives for low-light rooms include spider plants, Boston ferns, and parlour palms — all cat-safe houseplants.
Symptoms to watch for
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Cat owner essentials
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If your cat keeps returning to the wrong plant, a pet-safe plant deterrent spray can break the habit without harm.
Recommended for cat owners
Related
Sources referenced for this guidance
- Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) — UK clinical toxicology reference used by vets
- International Cat Care — feline-specific clinical guidance
- BSAVA — British Small Animal Veterinary Association reference materials
- Merck Veterinary Manual — professional veterinary reference
About this guidance
Every entry on this site is compiled from published UK veterinary toxicology sources — International Cat Care, Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) references, RCVS-registered practice materials, and peer-reviewed feline medicine literature. Where the evidence is mixed, we err on the cautious side because cats are unusually sensitive to many common substances that are harmless to humans and even to dogs.
This is general information written for UK cat owners. It is not personalised veterinary advice for your specific cat, their age, weight, medical history, or the exact exposure you're dealing with. If your cat has eaten something or is unwell, call your vet first. The Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 is available 24/7 for a small fee and can tell you whether an emergency visit is needed.
Entries are reviewed and updated as new research emerges. Spotted an error? Let us know — corrections are investigated and applied within 24 hours. For more context on how we work, see about and our full disclaimer.
Last reviewed: · By the What Can My Cat Eat? editorial team