Agave
Agave americana
Dogs: Mild
Cats: Mild
Plant Information
Century Plant, American Aloe, Maguey
Asparagaceae
outdoor
Mildly Toxic
Toxicity Details
sap, leaves, spines
Saponins, calcium oxalate raphides
Immediate to 2 hours
mild
Symptoms to Watch For
- Oral irritation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Skin irritation
- Puncture wounds from spines
What to Do
Rinse mouth and skin. Remove any embedded spines carefully. The sap causes contact dermatitis. Monitor for GI symptoms.
About Agave
Agave contains both saponins and sharp calcium oxalate needles in its sap, plus physical danger from its needle-tipped leaves. The sap causes significant skin and oral irritation. The physical spine injuries may be more immediately dangerous than the chemical toxicity.
Safe Alternatives
These plants provide a similar look but are non-toxic to pets: