Is kalanchoe toxic to dogs or cats?
Also known as: Mother of millions, devil's backbone
Cardiac toxins plus GI upset. A common gift plant.
The same cardiac risk applies to cats.
Kalanchoe is a cheerful flowering succulent that contains bufadienolides, the same class of heart toxin as in oleander, just less concentrated. Small nibbles usually mean GI upset; larger amounts can affect the heart. Not worth keeping within reach.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Abnormal heart rhythm in larger amounts
Sources: ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plant list, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).