Oxalates (Insoluble)

Oxalates (Insoluble)

plants

Alternate names

Araceae, Dieffenbachia, Calla lily, Arrowhead, Dumbcane, Peace lily, Philodendron, Pothos, Golden Pothos, Umbrella plant, Elephant's ear, Chinese evergreen, Schefflera, pothos, satin pothos, African Evergreen, Arrow-Head Vine, Green Gold Nephthytis

Toxicity to pets

Many common indoor and outdoor plants, often belonging to the Araceae family, contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Examples include Dieffenbachia, Calla lily, Arrowhead, Dumbcane, Peace Lily, Philodendron, Pothos, Umbrella Plant, Elephant’s Ear, Chinese Evergreen, and Schefflera. Chewing or biting into these plants will release the crystals causing tissue penetration and irritation to the mouth and GI tract. VERY rarely, swelling of the upper airway occurs, making it difficult to breathe. Insoluble calcium oxalate-containing plants have a different mechanism of toxicity than soluble oxalate-containing plants (e.g., star fruit, rhubarb, shamrock).

Common signs to watch for:

  • Drooling
  • Oral pain
  • Pawing at the mouth
  • Vomiting
  • Decreased appetite

 

Golden Pothos

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Disclaimer

The content of this page is not veterinary advice. A number of factors (amount of substance ingested, size of the animal, allergies, etc.) determine what is toxic to a particular pet. If you think your pet has eaten something potentially toxic, call Pet Poison Helpline or seek immediate veterinary treatment.