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If your cat ate philodendron birkin — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Philodendron Birkin is toxic to cats (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My cat ate Philodendron Birkin — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take philodendron birkin away and remove any plant material from your cat's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. 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 philodendron birkin — FAQ

Is philodendron birkin poisonous to cats?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Philodendron Birkin (Philodendron 'Birkin') as toxic to cats. Toxic to cats, dogs and humans. ASPCA does not list the 'Birkin' cultivar individually, but every Philodendron species it does list (e.g. Heartleaf Philodendron, Philodendron hederaceum, and Split-leaf Philodendron, Philodendron bipennifolium) is classed "Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats" on the basis of insoluble calcium oxalates. As a Philodendron cultivar, 'Birkin' carries the same chemistry; North Carolina Extension explicitly lists it as toxic to humans, cats and dogs via calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing releases needle-like raphide crystals that cause oral pain and swelling, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it away from pets and children, and wash hands after handling the sap.

How serious is it if my cat ate philodendron birkin?

Philodendron Birkin 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. Toxic to cats, dogs and humans. ASPCA does not list the 'Birkin' cultivar individually, but every Philodendron species it does list (e.g. Heartleaf Philodendron, Philodendron hederaceum, and Split-leaf Philodendron, Philodendron bipennifolium) is classed "Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats" on the basis of insoluble calcium oxalates. As a Philodendron cultivar, 'Birkin' carries the same chemistry; North Carolina Extension explicitly lists it as toxic to humans, cats and dogs via calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing releases needle-like raphide crystals that cause oral pain and swelling, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it away from pets and children, and wash hands after handling the sap. 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 philodendron birkin well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.

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