Is Ivy Arum Toxic to Cats?

Cat owners must always be aware of the plants and flowers they have at home since some of them might be dangerous to their pets. One of the plants that have been linked to cat poisoning is the ivy arum. But what is ivy arum, and how toxic is it to cats? This article will provide an in-depth discussion of ivy arum, its toxicity level, and what cat owners can do to keep their pets safe.

What is Ivy Arum?

Ivy arum, scientific name Dieffenbachia picta, is a popular houseplant appreciated for its attractive foliage and ability to filter toxins from the air. It is also known by other common names such as dumb cane, mother-in-law's tongue, and elephant ear. Ivy arum is native to the tropical regions of South and Central America and can grow up to six feet tall.

Why is Ivy Arum Toxic to Cats?

The ivy arum plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which is the main reason for its toxicity to cats. These crystals cause intense pain and irritation when ingested by cats, leading to symptoms such as drooling, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the mouth and tongue. In severe cases, it can cause death due to airway obstruction.

Symptoms of Ivy Arum Poisoning in Cats

If a cat ingests any part of the ivy arum plant, it can show the following symptoms within minutes:

• Drooling
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the mouth and tongue
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Seizures
• Death

First Aid for Ivy Arum Poisoning

If a cat has ingested any part of the ivy arum plant, it is essential to act quickly to minimize the effects of poisoning. These are the steps that cat owners can take to provide first aid:

• Remove any remaining plant material from the cat's mouth to prevent further ingestion
• Wash the cat's mouth with cool water to help remove any residual sap or toxins
• Do not induce vomiting since it can worsen the symptoms
• Take the cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible for further treatment

Preventing Ivy Arum Poisoning in Cats

Preventing ivy arum poisoning is crucial for cat owners. Here are some steps that they can take to prevent poisoning:

• Keep ivy arum plants away from areas where cats can access them
• Consider using artificial ivy arum plants instead of real ones
• Teach cats to avoid plants by using positive reinforcement training
• Consult with a veterinarian about safe indoor plants to keep at home
• Monitor cats closely and seek veterinary care immediately if poisoning is suspected

Conclusion

In summary, ivy arum is toxic to cats due to its calcium oxalate crystals that can cause serious health issues such as mouth and throat swelling, difficulty breathing, and, in severe cases, death. Cat owners should take measures to ensure that ivy arum plants are kept out of reach from their pets. In case of ingestion, timely veterinary care is crucial to reduce the effects of poisoning. By following the preventive measures outlined in this article, cat owners can help keep their pets safe from ivy arum toxicity.