Snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata), including varieties like the golden bird’s nest, contain chemical compounds called saponins. These naturally occurring substances act as a defense mechanism for the plant by deterring pests and harmful microbes.
But while saponins help the snake plant thrive, they can be dangerous for pets. This is why snake plants are toxic to cats.
When a cat ingests the plant material, the saponins can cause plant poisoning in cats, triggering symptoms that range from mild gastrointestinal upset to more serious issues like dehydration and lethargy.
While not usually extremely toxic, the toxic effects are enough to cause concern for any cat’s health. Saponins can irritate the gastrointestinal tract in cats, leading to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
