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Is Spotted Dumb Cane toxic to cats?

Dieffenbachia maculata

Toxic to cats

Yes — spotted dumb cane 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. All parts of Dieffenbachia maculata contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and proteolytic enzymes. Chewing any part causes immediate, intense burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat — formerly earning the plant its common name 'dumb cane' from the temporary loss of speech. Toxic to dogs and cats (ASPCA) and humans. Wear gloves when handling. Keep strictly away from pets and children.

What to do if your cat ate spotted dumb cane

  1. Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and move spotted dumb cane 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 spotted dumb cane to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is spotted dumb cane toxic to cats? — FAQ

Is spotted dumb cane toxic to cats?

Yes — spotted dumb cane is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. All parts of Dieffenbachia maculata contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and proteolytic enzymes. Chewing any part causes immediate, intense burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat — formerly earning the plant its common name 'dumb cane' from the temporary loss of speech. Toxic to dogs and cats (ASPCA) and humans. Wear gloves when handling. Keep strictly away from pets and children.

What are the symptoms if a cat eats spotted dumb cane?

All parts of Dieffenbachia maculata contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and proteolytic enzymes. Chewing any part causes immediate, intense burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat — formerly earning the plant its common name 'dumb cane' from the temporary loss of speech. Toxic to dogs and cats (ASPCA) and humans. Wear gloves when handling. Keep strictly 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 spotted dumb cane.

What should I do if my cat ate spotted dumb cane?

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 spotted dumb cane toxic to dogs too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Spotted Dumb Cane is toxic to dogs as well. See the full spotted dumb cane pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a cat-safe alternative to spotted dumb cane?

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 spotted dumb cane pet-safety