←
Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema modestum
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema spp.) is a popular low-maintenance houseplant with attractively patterned leaves. Like all plants in the Araceae family, it contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) — needle-like structures packed into cells throughout its leaves and stems. When a cat bites into any part of the plant, these crystals are ejected and physically pierce the soft tissues of the mouth and throat, causing immediate and intense pain.
Important Notes
Symptoms: Immediate oral pain, intense drooling, pawing at the mouth, swelling of the lips and tongue, and difficulty swallowing; vomiting may follow.
Rapid onset: Pain starts within seconds of chewing — the plant's own defence usually limits the amount consumed.
Action: Rinse the cat's mouth gently with water. Contact a vet if throat swelling, difficulty breathing, or persistent vomiting develops.
Potentially Toxic Parts
Entire Plant
Leaf
Stem
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Swelling of the lips, tongue, and oral cavity
Gastrointestinal · Rapid following contact.
Dyspnea (Difficulty breathing)
Respiratory · Rapid (If laryngeal edema occurs).
Intense burning, pain, and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips
Gastrointestinal · Immediate (Pain occurs as soon as the plant tissue is chewed).
Drooling or excessive salivation (Ptyalism)
Gastrointestinal · Immediate to within minutes of ingestion.
Difficulty swallowing
Gastrointestinal · Immediate.
Vomiting and anorexia (refusal to eat)
Gastrointestinal · Shortly after ingestion.
Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.