✕ Toxic

Philodendron

Q: Is Philodendron toxic to cats?

Warning: Toxic. Philodendron (Philodendron spp.), including popular varieties like 'Birkin' and heartleaf philodendron, are common houseplants that are toxic to cats. The leaves and stems contain tiny, needle-like structures called insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause irritation. When a cat bites the plant, these sharp crystals shoot into the mouth and throat tissues. This causes immediate, intense pain and burning. A cat may drool heavily, paw at its mouth, vomit, or have trouble swallowing. In severe cases, the swelling in the mouth and throat can make it hard for the cat to breathe. Because all varieties of philodendron are equally dangerous, it is best to keep them out of your cat's reach. If your cat eats this plant and shows signs of throat swelling or breathing issues, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Q: What are the symptoms if a cat eats Philodendron?

Immediate oral pain, intense burning sensation, erythema, Excessive drooling (hypersalivation), Vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), and loss of appetite (anorexia), Edema (swelling) of the mouth, tongue, pharynx, and upper airways, leading to difficulty breathing (dyspnea)

Philodendron spp., including 'Birkin'

Philodendron (Philodendron spp.), including popular varieties like 'Birkin' and heartleaf philodendron, are common houseplants that are toxic to cats. The leaves and stems contain tiny, needle-like structures called insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause irritation. When a cat bites the plant, these sharp crystals shoot into the mouth and throat tissues. This causes immediate, intense pain and burning. A cat may drool heavily, paw at its mouth, vomit, or have trouble swallowing. In severe cases, the swelling in the mouth and throat can make it hard for the cat to breathe. Because all varieties of philodendron are equally dangerous, it is best to keep them out of your cat's reach. If your cat eats this plant and shows signs of throat swelling or breathing issues, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Important Notes

Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate raphides (needle-like crystals)

Mechanism: raphides mechanically penetrate the oral and GI mucosa, causing immediate pain and inflammation

Symptoms: sudden oral pain, intense drooling, pawing at mouth, swollen lips and tongue, difficulty swallowing, vomiting

All species and hybrids are equally hazardous — variegated varieties are no safer than plain green types

Rinse the mouth with water; seek veterinary care if throat swelling impairs breathing

Potentially Toxic Parts

Leaf

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Edema (swelling) of the mouth, tongue, pharynx, and upper airways, leading to difficulty breathing (dyspnea)

Respiratory · Rapidly following ingestion

Immediate oral pain, intense burning sensation, erythema

Gastrointestinal · Immediate

Excessive drooling (hypersalivation)

Gastrointestinal · Immediate

Vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), and loss of appetite (anorexia)

Gastrointestinal · Shortly after 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.