plant
Sago Palm
IMMEDIATE VET ATTENTION
Sago palm is extremely toxic to dogs. Any part of the plant, especially the seeds, can cause liver failure and death.
If your dog has eaten this item, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary service now.
If your dog is showing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse, severe vomiting, unconsciousness or other serious symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
What to do
Contact your vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
When to contact a vet: Emergency vet attention immediately. Bring a photo or sample of the plant.
Symptoms to look for
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
- bruising
- bleeding
- jaundice
- seizures
- coma
Why
Sago palms contain cycasin, a toxin that causes severe liver damage. Dogs are attracted to the seeds. Even a small amount can cause vomiting, liver failure, bleeding disorders and death. The seeds are the most toxic part, but all parts of the plant are dangerous.
- Substances of concern
- cycasin, beta n methylamino l alanine
- Safer parts
- {}
- Parts to avoid
- {"sago palm seeds",leaves,trunk,roots}
- Preparation
- No safe part. Keep dogs away from sago palms entirely.
- How much matters
- Extremely toxic; one or two seeds can be fatal for a small dog.
- Severity
- Fatal if untreated
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlPrimary authoritative — Plant toxicity
- Pet Poison HelplinePrimary authoritative — Plant toxicity
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.