Is Mother of Thousands Toxic to Cats?

Yes — Mother of Thousands is severely toxic to cats

Mother of Thousands produces tiny plantlets along leaf edges that drop and root everywhere. It contains potent bufadienolide cardiac glycosides — more concentrated than other Kalanchoe species. Ingestion can cause fatal cardiac arrhythmias in both dogs and cats.

Symptoms in Cats

If your cat eats Mother of Thousands, watch for these symptoms (onset: 2 to 12 hours):

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Cardiac arrhythmias
Seizures
Collapse
Death

What To Do

Veterinary emergency. Contains high concentrations of cardiac glycosides. Even small amounts can cause fatal heart arrhythmias. Seek immediate vet care.

This is a veterinary emergency for cats. Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 immediately.

Cat-Safe Alternatives to Mother of Thousands

✓ Hens and Chicks ✓ Echeveria ✓ Haworthia

Quick Facts

Scientific Name

Kalanchoe daigremontiana

Also Toxic to Dogs?

Yes (severe)

Toxic Compound

Bufadienolides (daigremontianin)

Toxic Parts

all parts, plantlets

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline. View full Mother of Thousands toxicity profile.