Is Caladium Florida Cardinal toxic to cats?

Yes — caladium florida cardinal is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The ASPCA lists Caladium as toxic, with insoluble calcium oxalates as the toxic principle. Chewing releases needle-like raphide crystals that cause oral and tongue irritation, intense burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The tubers are considered especially potent.

Toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The ASPCA lists Caladium as toxic, with insoluble calcium oxalates as the toxic principle. Chewing releases needle-like raphide crystals that cause oral and tongue irritation, intense burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The tubers are considered especially potent. 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 caladium florida cardinal.

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: Caladium Florida Cardinal is toxic to dogs as well. See the full caladium florida cardinal 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.