Are philodendrons poisonous? Answer: Yes. Philodendrons and closely related species contain calcium oxalate crystals which are toxic to humans, dogs, cats, and other animals.
Q: I have two 4-month-old kittens. Given that he had some bloody drool around his mouth when I got home from work, I believe that one of them may have eaten my philodendron today. He’s still very playful. I gave him some chicken broth and tuna water while I browsed the internet. I don’t want my plant to kill him.
A: Philodendron leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals which, if ingested, irritate the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the stomach and intestines.
Editor’s Note: Cats and dogs may be at risk from common household foods and cleaning supplies. Dr. Lee provides information on pets and household hazards.
Affected cats drool and exhibit signs of abdominal pain. Your kitten’s eyes will hurt as well if he chews on your philodendron, paws at his mouth, and then rubs them. Fortunately, that’s the extent of the plant’s toxicity.
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What plants are toxic to cats and dogs?
It turns out that hundreds of plants, many of which are found in and around our homes, are poisonous to pets.
In fact, according to one of the experts I spoke with, there are no “safe” plants for pets.
Dr. David Neck, a veterinarian and the director of a veterinary clinic, says that every plant has the capacity to poison several different bodily systems when studying the toxic principles of plants in textbooks.
Emergency veterinarian and AVA president Paula Parker notes that while many plants have mild-to-moderate toxicity and can cause “mild” symptoms like upset stomach, Even in very small doses, pets that eat highly toxic plants run the risk of dying.
The following list contains 10 common plants and flowers toxic to cats and dogs. Its by no means comprehensive, so if you have pets check out (and bookmark) this resource from American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
What to do if your pet eats toxic plants
In the event that you believe your dog or cat has consumed plant material, or in any other situation where your pet is ill, Dr. Neck advises taking these actions. Remember: a small delay can be tragic.
FAQ
What happens if a cat eats philodendron?
Are all philodendrons poisonous?
Can philodendron cause kidney failure in cats?
What plant is very toxic to cats?