Pet emergency
My cat ate Rhaphidophora Decursiva — what to do
Step by step
- Take rhaphidophora decursiva 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 rhaphidophora decursiva — FAQ
Is rhaphidophora decursiva poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Rhaphidophora Decursiva (Rhaphidophora decursiva) as toxic to cats. Rhaphidophora decursiva is not individually named on the ASPCA toxic plant list, but it is an aroid (family Araceae) containing insoluble calcium oxalate crystals — the same mechanism the ASPCA documents for closely related listed aroids such as Monstera, Pothos/Epipremnum, and Philodendron. Chewing can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in cats and dogs. Treat as toxic, keep away from pets, and verify with your vet if ingestion occurs.
How serious is it if my cat ate rhaphidophora decursiva?
Rhaphidophora Decursiva 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. Rhaphidophora decursiva is not individually named on the ASPCA toxic plant list, but it is an aroid (family Araceae) containing insoluble calcium oxalate crystals — the same mechanism the ASPCA documents for closely related listed aroids such as Monstera, Pothos/Epipremnum, and Philodendron. Chewing can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in cats and dogs. Treat as toxic, keep away from pets, and verify with your vet if ingestion occurs. 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 rhaphidophora decursiva well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Related
- Is rhaphidophora decursiva toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Rhaphidophora Decursiva and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide