Are Bromeliads Poisonous to Animals?

Identification

• Bromeliads (Neoregalia spp.) are a tropical plant species available in a variety of sizes and foliage types. These low-maintenance plants require little care. The ornamental foliage and blooms are attractive when grown indoors as a houseplant. Most bromeliad plants are sensitive to cold and only grow outdoors year-round in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11, depending on variety.

Toxicity

• Bromeliads are listed as being non-toxic to animals, as well as humans. Even though the plant is considered safe to grow in a home with pets, it is possible for an animal to chew on the plant and possibly choke on the thick foliage. Tropical plants with succulent leaves can have a chewy texture and not break apart easily. Eating large amounts of any plants can cause an upset stomach or vomiting in some animals.

Ingestion Questions

• It is never a good idea to allow a pet or animal to chew on bromeliad plants. Remove pieces of the plant from the animal's mouth after an accidental ingestion. Call your local poison control center if there is a question on the toxicity of the plant variety or the amount of plant eaten. It is better to call immediately than to wait until concerning symptoms appear in the animal. Keep an eye on any animal that ingests pieces of bromeliad plants until there has been a bowel movement, even though bromeliads are considered non-toxic.

Home Safety

• Take safety measures in your home by knowing the names of all houseplants. The Latin or scientific name can be helpful if there is a question on ingestion. Keep plant tags that come with a purchased plant attached to the container or affix a label with the appropriate information. Keep the phone number for your local poison control center accessible.