Is Jack-in-the-pulpit Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)
Arisaema triphyllum
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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 Jack-in-the-pulpit is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
What makes this plant different
Jack-in-the-pulpit's distinctive hooded flower makes it easy to identify in the wild, but the oxalate crystals throughout the plant cause the same mild oral irritation seen across the Araceae family regardless of how dramatic the bloom looks.
Plant identification
- Scientific name
- Arisaema triphyllum
- Family
- Araceae
- Also known as
- Jack-in-the-pulpit, Wild turnip, Dragon root, Bog onion
- Typically found
- both
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Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control