Is Tree Philodendron Toxic to Cats?

Introduction

Many cat owners love to have houseplants in their homes to brighten up their living space. However, some plants are toxic to cats and can cause serious health issues or even death. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the plants that are safe to have around your feline friends. One plant that has recently come under scrutiny is the Tree Philodendron, or Philodendron bipinnatifidum. In this article, we will explore whether this plant is toxic to cats and what you should do if your cat ingests it.

What is Tree Philodendron?

Tree Philodendron is a popular ornamental plant that is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. It is a member of the Araceae family, which also includes other popular houseplants such as Peace Lily and Chinese Evergreen. The Tree Philodendron is a large plant that can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It has large, glossy green leaves that are deeply lobed and can grow up to 2 feet long.

Is Tree Philodendron toxic to cats?

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Tree Philodendron is toxic to cats. The plant contains a compound called calcium oxalate, which is also found in other plants in the Araceae family. This compound can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, tongue, and throat of cats if ingested. The severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the amount of plant material ingested and the size of the cat.

The symptoms of Tree Philodendron poisoning in cats include:

• Irritation and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of appetite

In severe cases, the swelling of the mouth and throat can be so severe that it can block the airway, making it difficult for the cat to breathe. If you suspect your cat has ingested any part of the Tree Philodendron plant and is showing any of the above symptoms, you should seek veterinary attention immediately.

What should you do if your cat ingests Tree Philodendron?

If you suspect that your cat has ingested any part of the Tree Philodendron plant, you should immediately remove any remaining plant material from the cat’s mouth and rinse its mouth out with water. You should also contact your veterinarian for advice on what steps to take next.

If your cat is showing any of the symptoms of Tree Philodendron poisoning, your veterinarian may recommend inducing vomiting to get rid of any remaining plant material in the stomach. They may also prescribe medication to help with the swelling and irritation in the mouth and throat. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to monitor the cat’s breathing and administer oxygen if needed.

How to protect your cat from Tree Philodendron poisoning

The best way to protect your cat from Tree Philodendron poisoning is to avoid having the plant in your home altogether. If you do have the plant in your home, make sure it is placed in an area that is inaccessible to your cat. You should also supervise your cat when it is around any plants to ensure that it does not ingest any plant material.

If you have a cat that likes to chew on plants, you may want to consider providing it with some safe alternatives. There are many cat-safe plants that you can include in your home, such as Cat Grass and Spider Plant.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tree Philodendron is toxic to cats and can cause serious health issues if ingested. If you have this plant in your home, it’s important to take steps to protect your cat from coming into contact with it. If your cat does ingest any part of the Tree Philodendron plant, seek veterinary attention immediately to ensure the best outcome for your furry friend.