Houseplant
Is Arrowhead plant toxic to cats and dogs?
Syngonium podophyllum · also called Arrowhead vine, goosefoot plant, nephthytis
Cats
Mildly toxicDogs
Mildly toxicThe arrowhead plant is mildly toxic to cats and dogs. It causes mouth irritation, drooling and vomiting if chewed.
By Maya HartIf your pet chewed it
- Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and offer something cold to drink or eat, such as a little milk or yogurt.
- Pain usually stops pets eating much.
- Call your vet if drooling or vomiting continues, or if there is any swelling around the mouth or difficulty breathing.
Signs to watch for
- Drooling
- Mouth and lip irritation
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
What is harmful
- Parts
- Leaves and stems; the sap can irritate skin
- Substance
- Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
The details
Syngonium is a fast-growing climber often sold in small pots as an easy-care plant. Young plants have arrow-shaped leaves that split as they mature. Trailing stems hanging within reach are tempting to cats, so train it upwards on a moss pole or keep it high.
Pet-safe alternatives
Questions owners ask
Is Arrowhead plant toxic to cats?
Yes — mildly toxic to cats. Harmful parts: leaves and stems; the sap can irritate skin.
Is Arrowhead plant toxic to dogs?
Yes — mildly toxic to dogs. Harmful parts: leaves and stems; the sap can irritate skin.
What happens if a pet eats arrowhead plant?
drooling, mouth and lip irritation, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and offer something cold to drink or eat, such as a little milk or yogurt. Pain usually stops pets eating much. Call your vet if drooling or vomiting continues, or if there is any swelling around the mouth or difficulty breathing.
What are pet-safe alternatives to arrowhead plant?
Spider plant, Boston fern, Calathea (prayer plant), Parlour palm, Hoya (wax plant).
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
