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Is Philodendron Bipennifolium (Horsehead) toxic to cats?

Philodendron bipennifolium

Toxic to cats

Yes — philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. The ASPCA individually lists the Horsehead Philodendron (Philodendron bipennifolium, family Araceae) as toxic to both dogs and cats. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it away from pets and children.

What to do if your cat ate philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your cat has eaten philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead), contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) toxic to cats?

Yes — philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA individually lists the Horsehead Philodendron (Philodendron bipennifolium, family Araceae) as toxic to both dogs and cats. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it away from pets and children.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)?

The ASPCA individually lists the Horsehead Philodendron (Philodendron bipennifolium, family Araceae) as toxic to both dogs and cats. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it away from pets and children. 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 philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead).

What should I do if my cat ate philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)?

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.

Is philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Philodendron Bipennifolium (Horsehead) is toxic to dogs as well. See the full philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)?

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.

Full philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) pet-safety