Toxic to cats · Plants

Is Arrowhead Vine toxic to cats?

Moderate severity

Yes. It can cause real illness — contact your vet if your pet has been exposed.

Also known as: African Evergreen

Symptoms to watch for

  • Drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Pawing at the mouth
  • Oral pain
  • Decreased appetite
  • Swelling of the upper airway
  • Difficulty breathing

How vets treat it

Rinse the mouth with water or milk to remove remaining crystals; monitor for airway swelling and consult a veterinarian if breathing becomes difficult.

Why it's dangerous

Chewing the plant releases needle-like crystals that penetrate and irritate the tissues of the mouth and oral cavity.

Toxic compound: Insoluble oxalate crystals

Good to know

Upper airway swelling is very rare but can be life-threatening. Part of the Araceae family.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

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