Is Queen Anthurium toxic to cats?

Yes — queen anthurium is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists the genus Anthurium as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, with insoluble calcium oxalates as the toxic principle (listed under "Tail Flower" and "Flamingo Flower," Anthurium scherzeranum). Anthurium warocqueanum is not named individually but belongs to the same genus, so treat it as toxic. Chewing releases needle-like raphide crystals causing oral irritation, drooling, mouth/lip swelling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

The ASPCA lists the genus Anthurium as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, with insoluble calcium oxalates as the toxic principle (listed under "Tail Flower" and "Flamingo Flower," Anthurium scherzeranum). Anthurium warocqueanum is not named individually but belongs to the same genus, so treat it as toxic. Chewing releases needle-like raphide crystals causing oral irritation, drooling, mouth/lip swelling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to queen anthurium.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Queen Anthurium is toxic to dogs as well. See the full queen anthurium pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.