🌿 Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Verdict
Toxic — calcium oxalate raphides cause severe oral swelling.
If your cat ate this
Cats hide symptoms — don't wait and see. Even small amounts of certain substances can be fatal to a cat. Act fast.
- 1. Call your veterinarian immediately
- 2. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
- 3. Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (consultation fee applies)
A consultation fee may apply for poison control hotlines.
Verdict
Dieffenbachia contains high concentrations of calcium oxalate raphides (needle-shaped crystals) that cause severe oral swelling, pain, and in rare cases can obstruct the airway. The name 'dumb cane' comes from the temporary loss of speech (voice) it causes in humans. Cats experience intense oral pain and drooling.
Symptoms to watch for
- • severe oral swelling
- • profuse drooling
- • vomiting
- • difficulty swallowing
- • rarely: airway obstruction
What to do
Rinse mouth, offer ice cubes. Contact vet immediately if breathing is affected. Move plant out of reach.
📞 US ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
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