Yes, schefflera is mildly toxic to cats
Schefflera (umbrella plant) contains insoluble calcium oxalates and saponins that irritate the mouth and stomach.
Schefflera and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Schefflera (Heptapleurum) spp. |
| Also called | umbrella tree, umbrella plant, octopus tree |
| Toxic compound | Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals |
| Toxic parts | All parts |
| Signs usually start | Immediate (within minutes of chewing) |
| Plant type | Houseplant |
Symptoms of schefflera poisoning in cats
- Mouth irritation and drooling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
Why schefflera 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 schefflera
- 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 mouth irritation and drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing. 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 schefflera
- Place schefflera 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 schefflera
If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
- BambooNon-toxic
- CalatheasNon-toxic
- FernsNon-toxic
- Areca PalmsNon-toxic
- African VioletsNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for cats.
Schefflera and cats: FAQ
Is schefflera poisonous to cats?
Schefflera is mildly toxic to cats. Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals can cause mouth irritation and drooling and vomiting, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of schefflera is toxic to cats?
All parts.
Can cats die from eating schefflera?
It is very unlikely. Schefflera 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 schefflera will my cat show symptoms?
Immediate (within minutes of chewing).
Is schefflera toxic to dogs too?
Yes, schefflera is mildly toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- CarnationsMildly toxic
- DaisiesMildly toxic
- ChrysanthemumsMildly toxic
- Baby's BreathMildly toxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Cats
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonous Plants
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.