Pet emergency
My cat ate Amorphophallus abyssinicus — what to do
Step by step
- Take amorphophallus abyssinicus away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My cat ate amorphophallus abyssinicus — FAQ
Is amorphophallus abyssinicus poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Amorphophallus abyssinicus (Amorphophallus abyssinicus) as toxic to cats. Not individually listed by the ASPCA, but as an Araceae aroid (the same family as the ASPCA-listed Amorphophallus relatives) its corm, stems and leaves contain insoluble calcium oxalate raphides. Chewing causes oral burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing in cats and dogs. Treat as toxic and keep out of reach of pets.
How serious is it if my cat ate amorphophallus abyssinicus?
Amorphophallus abyssinicus is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Not individually listed by the ASPCA, but as an Araceae aroid (the same family as the ASPCA-listed Amorphophallus relatives) its corm, stems and leaves contain insoluble calcium oxalate raphides. Chewing causes oral burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing in cats and dogs. Treat as toxic and keep out of reach of pets. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my cat vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep amorphophallus abyssinicus well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is amorphophallus abyssinicus toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Amorphophallus abyssinicus and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide