Is Sago Palm Poisonous to Dogs?

The toxic compound in sago palm:

• Cycasin

If your dog ate sago palm, watch for:

• •Vomiting
• •Melena (black, tarry stool)
• •Icterus (jaundice)
• •Increased thirst
• •Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis
• •Bruising
• •Coagulopathy
• •Liver damage
• •Liver failure
• •Death

How toxic is a sago palm to dogs?

Extremely toxic. The ASPCA classifies the sago palm (Cycas revoluta) as dangerous to dogs, cats, and horses. All parts of the plant are poisonous, and ingestion frequently causes acute liver failure. Veterinary reports indicate that even with treatment a large share of ingestion cases can be fatal, so any suspected exposure is a medical emergency.

Which part of the sago palm is most dangerous to dogs?

Every part of the plant contains the toxin cycasin and is poisonous, but the seeds (nuts) carry the highest concentration of toxins and are the most dangerous if a dog chews or swallows them. Even one or two seeds can cause severe poisoning.

What are the warning signs a dog ate a sago palm?

Early signs include vomiting (often within minutes to hours), increased thirst, lethargy, and bloody or black tarry stool. As liver damage develops over the following days, you may see jaundice (yellowing of the gums or eyes), bruising, abnormal bleeding, and weakness. Liver failure can develop within about three days, so contact a veterinarian or poison control immediately rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control - Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Sago Palm
• ASPCA - The Dangers of the Sago Palm

Last updated 2026-06-25