Is Cuckoo-pint Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)
Arum maculatum
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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 | both |
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.
Toxic component and mechanism
The toxic component in Cuckoo-pint is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
What makes this plant different
Cuckoo-pint's berries turn bright orange-red and are the part most likely to attract curious pets, but like the rest of the plant they cause only localized oral irritation from oxalate crystals rather than systemic poisoning.
Plant identification
- Scientific name
- Arum maculatum
- Family
- Araceae
- Also known as
- Cuckoo-pint, Arum, Lord-and-Ladies, Adam-and-Eve, Starch Root
- Typically found
- both
Pet-safe alternatives
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Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control