Flamingo Flower / Anthurium

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Oral pain, drooling, or pawing at the mouth Usually immediate while chewing.
2. 2
   Swollen lips, tongue, or throat Can occur quickly after chewing.
3. 3
   Vomiting or trouble swallowing Usually soon after oral irritation begins.

Important notes

Flamingo Flower and Anthurium (Anthurium spp.) are tropical houseplants with glossy leaves and bright, waxy-looking flowers. They are toxic to cats if chewed. All parts of the plant should be kept away from cats. The danger comes from insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, sometimes called raphides. These tiny needle-like crystals are released when the plant is bitten. They can pierce and irritate the soft tissues of the mouth and throat, causing immediate pain and swelling. Signs often start right away and may include pawing at the mouth, drooling, lip or tongue swelling, vomiting, or trouble swallowing. Most cats stop chewing quickly because it hurts, but swelling can still be stressful. Rinse the mouth gently with water if your cat allows it, remove the plant, and contact a veterinarian if symptoms continue or swallowing seems difficult.

• Main hazard: Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals cause immediate mouth and throat irritation.
• Symptoms: Pawing at the mouth, drooling, swollen lips or tongue, vomiting, or trouble swallowing.
• Risk level: All parts are irritating; pain often stops the cat from eating a large amount.
• Action: Remove plant material, offer water, and call a vet if swelling or swallowing trouble continues.