Houseplant
Is Dieffenbachia toxic to cats and dogs?
Dieffenbachia species · also called Dumb cane
Cats
ToxicDogs
ToxicDieffenbachia has a particularly high oxalate content and can make the mouth and throat swell enough to affect breathing in rare cases.
By Maya Hart
If your pet chewed it
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline, tell them the plant name (a photo helps) and how much was chewed.
- Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and remove any plant material from the fur.
Signs to watch for
- Intense drooling
- Swollen mouth and tongue
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting
What is harmful
- Parts
- Leaves and stems
- Substance
- Insoluble calcium oxalates and proteolytic enzymes
Pet-safe alternatives
Questions owners ask
Is Dieffenbachia toxic to cats?
Yes — toxic to cats. Harmful parts: leaves and stems.
Is Dieffenbachia toxic to dogs?
Yes — toxic to dogs. Harmful parts: leaves and stems.
What happens if a pet eats dieffenbachia?
intense drooling, swollen mouth and tongue, difficulty swallowing, vomiting.
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
Call your vet or a pet poison helpline, tell them the plant name (a photo helps) and how much was chewed. Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and remove any plant material from the fur.
What are pet-safe alternatives to dieffenbachia?
Spider plant, Boston fern, Calathea (prayer plant), Areca palm, Moth orchid.
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
