Italian Arum

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Mucous Membrane Irritation and Ulcerations Acute (The irritation is a direct contact effect). · The toxin causes direct irritation to the tissues it touches. In severe cases or large ingestions, this irritation progresses to the formation of actual ulcers within the mouth and digestive tract.
2. 2
   Vomiting and Diarrhea Acute (Following the irritation of the gastric lining). · These are the primary systemic signs of ingestion.
3. 3
   Abdominal Pain / Discomfort Acute. · This pain results from the inflammation and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract lining caused by the plant's toxins.
4. 4
   Dehydration Delayed (Occurs as a result of persistent vomiting and diarrhea). · Dehydration is a significant concern following the fluid loss from vomiting and diarrhea. Rehydration and electrolyte replacement are key components of the recommended veterinary treatment.

Important notes

Italian Arum (Arum spp., often Arum italicum) is an ornamental plant with arrow-shaped leaves and bright berries. It is unsafe for cats because the leaves, stems, tubers, and berries can all irritate the mouth and digestive tract. The main problem is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. These tiny, needle-like crystals are released when a cat bites the plant. They can scratch and burn the lips, tongue, mouth, and throat. The plant may also contain other irritating compounds, and the colorful berries can be especially tempting. A cat that chews Italian arum may drool, paw at the mouth, vomit, or have trouble swallowing. Swelling in the mouth or throat can become serious. Keep the plant and loose berries away from cats, and call a veterinarian if your cat chews any part of it or shows mouth swelling, repeated vomiting, or breathing trouble.

• Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate raphides, aroin (toxic protein), saponins; berries most concentrated
• Mechanism: raphides cause immediate mechanical irritation to the oral and GI mucosa; aroin and saponins add systemic toxicity
• Symptoms: intense oral burning, drooling, pawing at mouth, vomiting, diarrhea; severe berry ingestion may cause systemic illness
• The attractive orange-red berries pose the greatest risk, particularly to inquisitive cats
• Seek veterinary care if berry ingestion is suspected or if GI symptoms are severe