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Caladium / Elephant’s Ear
Caladium spp. or Alocasia spp.
Caladium (Caladium spp.), commonly known as Elephant's Ear, is a tropical houseplant grown for its vivid, heart-shaped leaves in shades of red, pink, white, and green. All parts of the plant — leaves, stems, and especially the underground tubers — contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) that cause immediate mechanical injury to any soft tissue they contact. The tubers carry the highest crystal concentration and pose the greatest risk if a cat digs at potted plants.
Important Notes
Symptoms: Immediate intense oral pain, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, swelling of the mouth, lips, and throat, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting.
Tubers are most concentrated: A cat digging in a Caladium pot and biting the tuber receives the highest dose of oxalate crystals.
Action: Rinse the cat's mouth with water to flush crystals. Seek veterinary attention if swelling is significant or symptoms do not resolve quickly.
Potentially Toxic Parts
Root
Stem
Leaf
Entire Plant
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Intense burning sensation and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips
Dermal · Immediate (upon chewing or biting).
Edema (Swelling) of the tongue, lips, and pharynx
Gastrointestinal · Immediate to Acute (rapid progression).
Dyspnea (Respiratory Distress)
Respiratory · Acute (following swelling).
Hypersalivation (Ptyalism)
Gastrointestinal · Immediate / Acute.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Gastrointestinal · Acute (following 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.