Is philodendron toxic to cats?
Also called: heartleaf philodendron, philodendrons, Cordatum, Sweetheart Plant, Philodendron hederaceum
Toxic
Its crystals irritate the mouth and stomach, causing drooling and vomiting.
Yes. Philodendrons are toxic to cats. They contain crystals that cause mouth pain and swelling, heavy drooling and vomiting.
Signs to watch for
- Mouth irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, heavy drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Toxicity: Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses
Read "Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Heartleaf Philodendron"
Checked 9 October 2026
VCA Animal Hospitals
If ingested, this plant can cause burns to the mouth, excessive drooling and vomiting.
Read "Top 10 toxic household plants for pets"
Checked 9 October 2026
Pet Poison Helpline
These plants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can be very irritating to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract.
Read "Top 11 Poisonous Plants"
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Toxicity: Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses
Clinical Signs: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting (not horses), difficulty swallowing
Read "Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Heartleaf Philodendron"
Checked 9 October 2026
VCA Animal Hospitals
If ingested, this plant can cause burns to the mouth, excessive drooling and vomiting.
Read "Top 10 toxic household plants for pets"
Checked 9 October 2026
Pet Poison Helpline
These plants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can be very irritating to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract.
Read "Top 11 Poisonous Plants"
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
International Cat Care
If you’re concerned your cat has come into contact with any of the substances listed, contact your veterinary team immediately
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Clinical Signs: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting (not horses), difficulty swallowing
Read "Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Heartleaf Philodendron"
Checked 9 October 2026