Is Dieffenbachia Toxic to Cats? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, dieffenbachia is mildly toxic to cats

Dieffenbachia contains some of the highest concentrations of oxalate crystals and enzymes among houseplants, which is why it is called "dumb cane": chewing it can make the mouth swell. Signs are usually short-lived but can be more intense than with pothos.

Dieffenbachia and cats: key facts

Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Dieffenbachia spp.
Also called	dumb cane, tropic snow
Toxic compound	Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
Toxic parts	All parts
Signs usually start	Immediate (within minutes of chewing)
Plant type	Houseplant

Symptoms of dieffenbachia poisoning in cats

Intense mouth pain
Drooling
Swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips
Vomiting
Difficulty swallowing or, rarely, breathing

Why dieffenbachia is toxic to cats

The plant cells contain bundles of needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals (raphides). When a pet bites into the leaf, the crystals are ejected and embed in the mouth, tongue and throat, causing immediate burning pain, drooling and swelling. The crystals are not absorbed into the body, so organ damage is not expected.

What to do if your cat ate dieffenbachia

Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
Watch for intense mouth pain, drooling, swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.

Treatment and outlook

Most cases need only supportive care. Gently rinse your pet's mouth with water and offer water to drink. A vet may give pain relief, anti-nausea medicine or an antihistamine for swelling. Go to a vet right away if you see swelling of the throat or any trouble breathing.

How to keep your cat away from dieffenbachia

Place dieffenbachia on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.

Pet-safe alternatives to dieffenbachia

If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for cats.

Dieffenbachia and cats: FAQ

Is dieffenbachia poisonous to cats?

Dieffenbachia is mildly toxic to cats. Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals can cause intense mouth pain and drooling, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of dieffenbachia is toxic to cats?

All parts.

Can cats die from eating dieffenbachia?

It is very unlikely. Dieffenbachia usually causes mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.

How long after eating dieffenbachia will my cat show symptoms?

Immediate (within minutes of chewing).

Is dieffenbachia toxic to dogs too?

Yes, dieffenbachia is mildly toxic to dogs.

Other plants toxic to cats

Sources

Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.

Is Dieffenbachia Toxic to Cats?