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Is Philodendron Selloum (Tree Philodendron) toxic to cats?

Philodendron bipinnatifidum (syn. Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum, P. selloum)

Toxic to cats

Yes — philodendron selloum (tree philodendron) 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 classifies Philodendron (including selloum/lacy tree philodendron) as toxic to both cats and dogs. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) in the leaves, stems and sap, which on chewing cause intense oral burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The sap is also a skin and eye irritant in people, so wear gloves when pruning. Keep well out of reach of pets and children.

What to do if your cat ate philodendron selloum (tree philodendron)

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move philodendron selloum (tree philodendron) 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 selloum (tree philodendron) to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is philodendron selloum (tree philodendron) toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is philodendron selloum (tree philodendron) toxic to cats?

Yes — philodendron selloum (tree philodendron) is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA classifies Philodendron (including selloum/lacy tree philodendron) as toxic to both cats and dogs. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) in the leaves, stems and sap, which on chewing cause intense oral burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The sap is also a skin and eye irritant in people, so wear gloves when pruning. Keep well out of reach of pets and children.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats philodendron selloum (tree philodendron)?

The ASPCA classifies Philodendron (including selloum/lacy tree philodendron) as toxic to both cats and dogs. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals (raphides) in the leaves, stems and sap, which on chewing cause intense oral burning, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. The sap is also a skin and eye irritant in people, so wear gloves when pruning. Keep well out of reach of 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 selloum (tree philodendron).

What should I do if my cat ate philodendron selloum (tree philodendron)?

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 selloum (tree philodendron) toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Philodendron Selloum (Tree Philodendron) is toxic to dogs as well. See the full philodendron selloum (tree philodendron) pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to philodendron selloum (tree philodendron)?

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 selloum (tree philodendron) pet-safety