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Bird’s Nest Anthurium
Anthurium hookeri
Bird's Nest Anthurium (Anthurium spp.) is a popular tropical houseplant with glossy, heart-shaped leaves and distinctive waxy spathes. All Anthurium species belong to the Araceae family and contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) throughout their leaves, stems, and berries. These needle-like crystals cause immediate mechanical injury to the soft tissues of the mouth and digestive tract when the plant is chewed. The colorful berries that some varieties produce are particularly attractive to cats but carry the same risk.
Important Notes
Symptoms: Immediate oral pain, intense drooling, pawing at the mouth, swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, and difficulty swallowing. Ingestion of berries may also cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Berries are an additional hazard: The colorful spathe berries contain the same raphide crystals and should be removed promptly when they appear.
Action: Rinse the cat's mouth with water. Seek veterinary advice if swelling is significant or symptoms persist beyond an hour.
Potentially Toxic Parts
Stem
Leaf
All parts of the plant
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Swelling of the lips, tongue, and pharynx (throat)
Gastrointestinal · Rapid (shortly after contact).
Intense burning sensation and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips
Gastrointestinal · Immediate (upon chewing or biting).
Drooling
Gastrointestinal · Immediate.
Vomiting
Gastrointestinal · Rapid.
Difficulty swallowing
Gastrointestinal · Immediate to Rapid.
Pawing at the mouth or face
Neurological · Immediate.
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.