Is Caladium Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)
Caladium hortulanum
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Quick facts
| Toxic to dogs | Yes |
|---|---|
| Toxic to cats | Yes |
| Toxic to horses | Yes |
| Toxic component | Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals |
| Onset of symptoms | Within minutes of chewing |
| Indoor / outdoor | indoor |
If your pet ate this plant
Both lines are staffed 24/7. A consultation fee applies to each. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
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Symptoms in dogs
- Oral pain
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
Symptoms in cats
- Oral pain
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Pawing at mouth
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What to do
Offer water to help rinse remaining crystals from the mouth. Most cases resolve with supportive care at home; seek vet care if swelling of the mouth or throat develops or vomiting persists beyond a few hours.
Toxic component and mechanism
The toxic component in Caladium is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
What makes this plant different
Caladium's dramatic, brightly patterned leaves make it a popular seasonal houseplant, but like other Araceae it causes only localized oral pain rather than systemic poisoning — the visual drama of the plant doesn't match the relatively mild severity of ingestion.
Plant identification
- Scientific name
- Caladium hortulanum
- Family
- Araceae
- Also known as
- Caladium, Malanga, Elephant's Ears, Stoplight, Seagull, Mother-in-law Plant, Pink Cloud, Texas Wonder, Angel-Wings, Exposition, Candidum, Fancy-leaved Caladium
- Typically found
- indoor
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Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control