Pet emergency
My cat ate Philodendron Rugosum (Pigskin) — what to do
Step by step
- Take philodendron rugosum (pigskin) 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 philodendron rugosum (pigskin) — FAQ
Is philodendron rugosum (pigskin) poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Philodendron Rugosum (Pigskin) (Philodendron rugosum) as toxic to cats. Toxic to cats and dogs. Philodendron rugosum is not listed individually by the ASPCA, but the ASPCA classifies the Philodendron genus (e.g. Heartleaf and Tree Philodendron) as toxic due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, and no member is listed as non-toxic. Chewing causes oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, lips and tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep away from pets and verify with your vet.
How serious is it if my cat ate philodendron rugosum (pigskin)?
Philodendron Rugosum (Pigskin) 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 and dogs. Philodendron rugosum is not listed individually by the ASPCA, but the ASPCA classifies the Philodendron genus (e.g. Heartleaf and Tree Philodendron) as toxic due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, and no member is listed as non-toxic. Chewing causes oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, lips and tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep away from pets and verify with your vet. 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 rugosum (pigskin) well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is philodendron rugosum (pigskin) toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Philodendron Rugosum (Pigskin) and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide