Sago palm is an ornamental cycad with stiff feather-like fronds and a rough trunk, used in warm-climate landscapes and decorative indoor pots. Despite the name, it is not a true palm. All parts of the plant are highly toxic to pets.
The large orange-red seeds are the most dangerous part, but fronds, roots, bark, and dried clippings are also hazardous. Exposure often happens when pets chew container plants, investigate pruning piles, or find fallen seeds after wind and yard work. Sago palms are common near patios, walkways, pool areas, and apartment entrances, which increases nose-level access.
Landscapers also use sago palms as foundation plants, median plantings, and decorative pots at hotels and office entrances. Female plants produce round seed clusters in the center crown, while male plants form tall cone structures. Fallen seeds may hide in gravel, mulch, and leaf litter after pruning crews finish work.
Toxic compounds such as cycasin can damage the liver and nervous system. Ingestion may cause vomiting, drooling, lethargy, bleeding problems, seizures, and collapse. Signs may begin within hours and worsen quickly, so any suspected bite or chew should be treated as an emergency.
