⚠ Caution

Schefflera / Umbrella Tree

Q: Is Schefflera / Umbrella Tree toxic to cats?

Caution: potentially harmful. Schefflera (Schefflera spp.), also known as the Umbrella Tree, is a common houseplant that is not safe for cats to chew. Its leaves and stems contain microscopic, needle-like crystals that can cause pain and irritation if eaten. The main irritants are insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When a cat bites or chews the plant, these sharp crystals are forcefully released into the soft tissues of the mouth, tongue, and throat. This causes a physical injury, like chewing on tiny needles, rather than a chemical poisoning. Because it causes immediate discomfort, cats usually stop chewing right away. Signs of ingestion include drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, or a decreased appetite. While most cases are mild, you should keep the plant out of your cat's reach. If symptoms are severe or do not improve, contact your veterinarian.

Schefflera spp. or Schefflera actinphylla

Schefflera (Schefflera spp.), also known as the Umbrella Tree, is a common houseplant that is not safe for cats to chew. Its leaves and stems contain microscopic, needle-like crystals that can cause pain and irritation if eaten. The main irritants are insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When a cat bites or chews the plant, these sharp crystals are forcefully released into the soft tissues of the mouth, tongue, and throat. This causes a physical injury, like chewing on tiny needles, rather than a chemical poisoning. Because it causes immediate discomfort, cats usually stop chewing right away. Signs of ingestion include drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, or a decreased appetite. While most cases are mild, you should keep the plant out of your cat's reach. If symptoms are severe or do not improve, contact your veterinarian.

Important Notes

Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and terpenoid compounds; all parts of the plant are hazardous

Mechanism: raphides cause mechanical irritation to the mouth and GI mucosa; terpenoids add chemical irritation

Symptoms: oral pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea; skin contact with sap may cause localised irritation

The compound leaves and tree-like structure may attract cats — keep in rooms the cat cannot access

Symptoms are usually mild; contact your vet if vomiting is persistent

Potentially Toxic Parts

Leaf

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Mucous membrane irritation, intense oral pain, and excessive salivation (drooling)

Gastrointestinal · Immediate (upon chewing the plant material).

Vomiting and diarrhea

Gastrointestinal · Shortly after ingestion (within a few hours).

Anorexia

Gastrointestinal · Immediate to within a few hours following exposure.

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.