Description

This article is from the Pet Owner's Guide to Common Small Animal Poisons, by Julie Dahlke, DVM, a graduate of the University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine.

Plants: Araceae Family - X

Scientific name -- Many, including: Schefflera actinophylla,
Dieffenbachia maculata, Begonia tuberhybrida, Philodendron

Common names -- Starleaf, Tuftroot, tuberous begonia, wax begonia,
water plant, yellow calla, peace lily, etc.

This family of house plants and ornamentals contains oxalates and
causes toxicity by the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in the
animals organs and by causing the release of chemicals in the body
which can cause an acute allergic reaction. Signs may include
excessive salivation, head shaking, pawing at the mouth, difficult
breathing, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Fortunately, the plant causes pain and irritation on chewing and
therefore animals rarely eat it in sufficient quantities to cause
severe damage. Much of the motivation for chewing on such a plant
involves boredom and other psychological factors (recent changes in
the household, etc.) so it may be worth noting if an animal begins
suddenly eating house plants they used to ignore and discussing the
subject in a phone call or visit to your veterinarian. If your
household plants include any of those in the Araceae family, be aware
of the potential for toxicity and preferably keep the plants away from
the pet or switch to safer house plants.

 

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