Is Lasia spinosa toxic to cats?

Yes — lasia spinosa 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 and dogs as a raw plant. Lasia is an aroid (Araceae) containing insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; it is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but the family's oxalate toxicity causes oral burning, drooling and vomiting if chewed. Although traditionally eaten by people after thorough cooking, the raw plant should be treated as toxic to pets.

Toxic to cats and dogs as a raw plant. Lasia is an aroid (Araceae) containing insoluble calcium oxalate crystals; it is not individually listed by the ASPCA, but the family's oxalate toxicity causes oral burning, drooling and vomiting if chewed. Although traditionally eaten by people after thorough cooking, the raw plant should be treated as toxic to pets. 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 lasia spinosa.

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: Lasia spinosa is toxic to dogs as well. See the full lasia spinosa 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.