Pet emergency
My cat ate Philodendron Xanadu — what to do
Step by step
- Take philodendron xanadu 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 xanadu — FAQ
Is philodendron xanadu poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Philodendron Xanadu (Thaumatophyllum xanadu (syn. Philodendron xanadu)) as toxic to cats. Like other aroids, Xanadu contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in all parts. The ASPCA does not list Xanadu by name but classes its close relative, Tree Philodendron (Philodendron selloum, now Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum), as toxic to cats and dogs, with oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, lips and tongue, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The sap can also irritate skin and eyes, so wear gloves when handling. Keep away from pets and children.
How serious is it if my cat ate philodendron xanadu?
Philodendron Xanadu 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. Like other aroids, Xanadu contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in all parts. The ASPCA does not list Xanadu by name but classes its close relative, Tree Philodendron (Philodendron selloum, now Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum), as toxic to cats and dogs, with oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, lips and tongue, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The sap can also irritate skin and eyes, so wear gloves when handling. Keep away from pets and children. 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 xanadu well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is philodendron xanadu toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Philodendron Xanadu and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide