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My cat ate a philodendron plant. Is it toxic? Should I be concerned?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

I recently discovered that one or both of my cats have been gnawing at my philodendron silver which I’ve learned is toxic to cats! I haven’t noticed any symptoms and I’ve removed the plant, but I’m wondering if I need to be concerned

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 27th, 2020

At worst, you may see some oral irritation, drooling or stomach upset. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which are very irritating. If you've seen no symptoms, they are likely not affected. If it happens again, rinse the mouth with cool water for 10-15 minutes and offer a bland diet in small, frequent amounts until any symptoms resolve.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on December 7th, 2018
The plant is mildly to moderately toxic, which means that mostly gastrointestinal and oral self limiting signs are seen like vomiting, oral inflammation, hypersalivation. Less commonly respiratory signs are seen (like breathing rapidly, coughing, struggling to breath) and if that is the case an immediate veterinary consultation should be seek. Toxicity usually depends on the type of plant as well and certainly on the quantity ingested.
Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. Please find the time to give us a feedback about the consultation as that will be used to improve our service.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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