Is Philodendron Toxic to Cats and Dogs?

Philodendron (Philodendron spp.) is mildly toxic to both cats and dogs.

Why

Philodendrons contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When chewed, they cause immediate pain and irritation in the mouth.

Serious poisoning is uncommon because the discomfort discourages further eating, but small pets can be more affected.

How to recognize it

The philodendron group includes trailing types with heart-shaped leaves and upright types with large, deeply lobed leaves. Heartleaf philodendron looks very similar to pothos, and both have the same kind of irritating crystals.

Signs to watch for

• Drooling
• Pawing at the mouth
• Vomiting
• Swelling of the lips or tongue

What to do

• Rinse your pet's mouth with water.
• Call your veterinarian if symptoms are severe or do not settle, or immediately if breathing is affected.
• Keep philodendrons out of reach of pets that chew plants.

Is my plant a philodendron at all?

Plant shops use the name loosely. "Split-leaf philodendron" is often a monstera, and the large outdoor plant long sold as Philodendron selloum has been moved to a separate genus. Heartleaf philodendron is regularly sold as pothos and the other way around.

For your pet, the mix-up matters less than it seems. Philodendron, monstera and pothos are all aroids with insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, and the ASPCA lists them as causing the same kind of mouth irritation. Popular hybrids such as 'Pink Princess', 'Brasil' and 'Xanadu' carry the same caution.

Does a bigger plant mean more risk?

The crystals are spread through the leaves and stems, so there is no safer part to chew. What changes with size is access. Tall floor plants in big pots put their lower leaves at the height of a dog's mouth, and an outdoor philodendron in a warm-climate garden can shed large leaves onto a lawn where dogs play.

Most pets stop after one painful bite. Problems tend to come from dogs that chew compulsively, puppies, and small pets for whom one leaf is a large amount.

Leaves that turn yellow and drop are just as irritating as fresh ones. Clearing them away removes one of the easiest things for a pet to pick up.

What does a vet usually do?

Treatment is aimed at comfort. A vet looks in the mouth and throat, may give pain relief or an anti-inflammatory, and may give fluids if vomiting or drooling has left your pet dehydrated. Most pets recover within a day.

Go in promptly if your pet stops drinking, has noisy breathing, or has a swollen face or neck. Tell the vet what the plant looks like or bring a photo, since so many aroids are sold under the wrong name.

Pet-safe alternatives

Looking for something similar without the risk? These plants are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.

• Non-toxicCalathea (prayer plant)
• Non-toxicSpider plant

Common questions

Is philodendron poisonous to pets?

Cats: Mildly toxic. Dogs: Mildly toxic. Philodendron is mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Chewing philodendron causes mouth irritation, drooling and sometimes vomiting.

Is it safe to keep philodendron in a home with cats and dogs?

Yes, as long as your pets cannot reach it. Keep philodendrons out of reach of pets that chew plants.

What should I do if my pet chews philodendron?

Rinse your pet's mouth with water. Call your veterinarian if symptoms are severe or do not settle, or immediately if breathing is affected.

Which pet-safe plants can I grow instead of philodendron?

Calathea and spider plant are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.

← All plants

Sources

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List (dogs, cats).
• Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.

If your pet has eaten a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away and bring a photo or piece of the plant. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).