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Black Velvet Alocasia
Alocasia reginula
Black Velvet Alocasia (Alocasia reginula) is a striking indoor plant prized for its dark, velvety leaves with silvery veins. Like all plants in the Alocasia genus and the broader Araceae family, it contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) — microscopic needle-like structures packed into specialised cells throughout the leaves, stems, and roots. When a cat bites or chews any part of the plant, these crystals are forcibly ejected and physically penetrate the soft tissues of the mouth and throat, causing immediate and intense pain that typically stops the cat from ingesting more.
Important Notes
Symptoms: Immediate intense oral pain, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, and difficulty swallowing; vomiting may follow if some plant material is swallowed.
Rapid onset: Irritation begins within seconds of chewing — the plant's own defence mechanism usually limits the amount ingested.
Action: Rinse the cat's mouth gently with water to help flush the crystals. Contact a vet if throat swelling, persistent vomiting, or difficulty breathing develops.
Potentially Toxic Parts
Stem
Leaf
All parts of the plant
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Swelling of the throat (Laryngeal edema)
Respiratory · Rapid.
Severe oral irritation; intense burning of the mouth, tongue, and throat
Gastrointestinal · Immediate (upon contact/chewing).
Drooling
Gastrointestinal · Immediate.
Vomiting
Gastrointestinal · Rapid (shortly after ingestion).
Difficulty swallowing
Gastrointestinal · Immediate to Rapid.
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.