Why
The jade plant (Crassula ovata) is a popular succulent. The exact toxin is unknown, but eating it can cause stomach upset and sometimes a slow heart rate or incoordination.
Cats seem to be affected more often than dogs, partly because they are more likely to nibble indoor plants.
How to recognize it
A branching succulent with thick, woody stems and plump, oval, glossy leaves, sometimes edged in red. It is often grown as a small "tree" and sold as a lucky plant, and in some places it is also called a money plant.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Lethargy or depression
- Loss of coordination
- Slow heart rate (uncommon)
What to do
- Contact your veterinarian for advice, especially if your pet seems weak or wobbly.
- Keep jade plants on high shelves or in rooms pets cannot enter.
Pet-safe alternatives
Looking for something similar without the risk? These plants are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Related plants
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List (dogs, cats).
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.
If your pet has eaten a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away and bring a photo or piece of the plant. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).