Are Succulents Poisonous to Dogs?

The toxic compounds in succulents:

• Bufadienolides (cardiac glycosides) in Kalanchoe spp.
• Saponins and anthraquinones in Aloe vera
• Insoluble irritant compounds / GI irritants in Jade plant (Crassula ovata)
• Irritant milky latex / diterpene esters in Euphorbia succulents

If your dog ate succulents, watch for:

• •Vomiting
• •Diarrhea
• •Lethargy
• •Abnormal heart rhythm / arrhythmia (rare, primarily with Kalanchoe ingestion)
• •Incoordination (reported with Jade plant)
• •Changes in urine color (reported with Aloe)

Are all succulents toxic to dogs?

No. 'Succulents' is a broad category spanning many plant families, and some (such as Haworthia, Echeveria, and Sempervivum/hens-and-chicks) are generally considered non-toxic. However, several very common succulents are confirmed toxic to dogs by the ASPCA, so you should never assume an unidentified succulent is safe. Identify the exact species before letting a dog near it.

Which succulents are the most dangerous to dogs?

Kalanchoe is the highest-risk common succulent because it contains bufadienolides (cardiac glycosides) that can, in rare cases, cause abnormal heart rhythm in addition to vomiting and diarrhea. Aloe vera (saponins, anthraquinones) and Jade plant (Crassula ovata) are also ASPCA-listed as toxic and cause gastrointestinal upset and lethargy. Spurge-type Euphorbia succulents have an irritant latex sap.

My dog chewed a succulent. What signs should I watch for?

Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling, and loss of appetite. With Kalanchoe specifically, watch for signs of an abnormal or irregular heartbeat, weakness, or collapse. Because you may not know the exact species, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) promptly, especially if a Kalanchoe or large amount was eaten.

• ASPCA - Kalanchoe (Toxic to Dogs)
• ASPCA - Aloe (Toxic to Dogs)
• PetMD - Are Succulents Poisonous to Cats and Dogs?

Last updated 2026-06-25