Yes, dieffenbachia plants are toxic to cats.
Classified under the family Araceae, Dieffenbachia is a genus of flowering plants native to the New World Tropics. Charming dieffenbachia, dumb cane, exotica, giant dumb cane, leopard lily, mother-in-law’s tongue, tropic snow, and spotted exotica perfection are its alternate names. The plant is cultivated due to its gorgeous yellow and green variegated leaves. In the right conditions, it can grow up to six feet tall.
Pet Poison Helpline and American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) both state that dieffenbachia plants are toxic to cats. The genus has raphides (needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals) and proteolytic enzymes that can harm your pet cat. When bitten, the plant can cause oral as well as gastrointestinal irritation.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats dieffenbachia plants: Speak with your veterinarian immediately to find out what to do. The gravity of the situation depends on how much she consumed and how long it’s been in her system. The plant may also trigger other existing health conditions.
In the meantime, take the plant away from her. Remove any plant parts found on her. Place your pet in a confined space to monitor her for any changes. ASPCA lists intense oral burning and irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty in swallowing as common symptoms.
Additionally, poisoning may manifest as diarrhea, twitching and fitting, difficulty in breathing, shock or collapse, and depression or coma. She may also show changes in her drinking, urinating, and eating habits, or experience skin redness and swelling.
In summary: Do not cultivate dieffenbachia plants if you own or care for cats. Before bringing home a new houseplant, keep your pets safe by checking these lists from ASPCA, PetMD, and Pet Poison Helpline. Though cats can technically graze on grass, it is another matter for them to munch on your ornamental plants on a regular basis.
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