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Is Philodendron Tortum (Fernleaf) toxic to cats?

Philodendron tortum

Toxic to cats

Yes — philodendron tortum (fernleaf) 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 lists Philodendron (Philodendron spp., family Araceae) as toxic to cats and dogs, with multiple species individually listed (e.g. Horsehead/Philodendron bipennifolium, Tree Philodendron). P. tortum is a member of this genus and is not listed as a non-toxic exception, so treat it as toxic. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing if chewed. Keep out of reach of pets and children, and contact a vet if ingestion is suspected.

What to do if your cat ate philodendron tortum (fernleaf)

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

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

Is philodendron tortum (fernleaf) toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is philodendron tortum (fernleaf) toxic to cats?

Yes — philodendron tortum (fernleaf) 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 Philodendron (Philodendron spp., family Araceae) as toxic to cats and dogs, with multiple species individually listed (e.g. Horsehead/Philodendron bipennifolium, Tree Philodendron). P. tortum is a member of this genus and is not listed as a non-toxic exception, so treat it as toxic. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing if chewed. Keep out of reach of pets and children, and contact a vet if ingestion is suspected.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats philodendron tortum (fernleaf)?

The ASPCA lists Philodendron (Philodendron spp., family Araceae) as toxic to cats and dogs, with multiple species individually listed (e.g. Horsehead/Philodendron bipennifolium, Tree Philodendron). P. tortum is a member of this genus and is not listed as a non-toxic exception, so treat it as toxic. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing if chewed. Keep out of reach of pets and children, and contact a vet if ingestion is suspected. 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 tortum (fernleaf).

What should I do if my cat ate philodendron tortum (fernleaf)?

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 tortum (fernleaf) toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Philodendron Tortum (Fernleaf) is toxic to dogs as well. See the full philodendron tortum (fernleaf) pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to philodendron tortum (fernleaf)?

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 tortum (fernleaf) pet-safety