Pet emergency
My cat ate Rhaphidophora Pachyphylla — what to do
Step by step
- Take rhaphidophora pachyphylla 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 a poison-control line — (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK. Both charge a consultation fee. 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 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK.
My cat ate rhaphidophora pachyphylla — FAQ
Is rhaphidophora pachyphylla poisonous to cats?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Rhaphidophora Pachyphylla (Rhaphidophora pachyphylla) as toxic to cats. Rhaphidophora belongs to the aroid family alongside Monstera and Philodendron, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to cats and dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing the thick leaves causes oral and tongue irritation, intense drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Treat as toxic and keep away from pets and children.
How serious is it if my cat ate rhaphidophora pachyphylla?
Rhaphidophora Pachyphylla is toxic to cats and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, 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 belongs to the aroid family alongside Monstera and Philodendron, which the ASPCA lists as toxic to cats and dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing the thick leaves causes oral and tongue irritation, intense drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Treat as toxic and 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 a poison-control specialist specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep rhaphidophora pachyphylla well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best cats-safe plants list.
Type any plant to see what the ASPCA says about it and your cat.
Related
- Is rhaphidophora pachyphylla toxic to cats? — full toxicity detail
- Rhaphidophora Pachyphylla and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide
- Best plant app for pet owners — which apps actually flag ASPCA toxicity before you buy the plant