PlantFunPhilodendron Pertusum Toxic?
This Araceae family plant is confirmed toxic to cats, dogs, and horses per ASPCA official data
Its core toxic component is insoluble calcium oxalates that irritate mucous membranes on contact
Ingestion causes oral pain, swelling, drooling, and vomiting (vomiting does not occur in affected horses)
FAQ
Is Philodendron Pertusum toxic to Humans?
Limited clinical data available; expected symptoms include mild oral burning, drooling, and difficulty swallowing, with severe toxicity extremely rare (Low)
Is Philodendron Pertusum toxic to Cats?
Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing (Moderate)
Is Philodendron Pertusum toxic to Dogs?
Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing (Moderate)
Is Philodendron Pertusum toxic to Horses?
Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing (vomiting not reported in horses) (Moderate)
Toxicity Details
Limited clinical data available; expected symptoms include mild oral burning, drooling, and difficulty swallowing, with severe toxicity extremely rare
Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing (vomiting not reported in horses)
Toxicity Snapshot
First Aid & Prevention
First 30 Minutes
- • Remove any remaining plant material from the affected individual's mouth immediately
- • Rinse the mouth thoroughly with cool, clean water to reduce mucous membrane irritation
- • Offer small sips of water or plain milk to dilute oxalate crystals if the individual can swallow without pain
- • Monitor closely for signs of throat swelling or breathing difficulty
Contact Vet Immediately
- • Excessive drooling, pain, or irritation persists for more than 30 minutes after exposure
- • Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat is observed, or the individual has difficulty breathing
- • Repeated vomiting occurs, or the animal refuses to eat or drink post-ingestion
- • A large quantity of the plant was consumed, or the affected individual is a young animal/foal
Prevention
- • Keep Philodendron plants placed well out of reach of pets, horses, and young children
- • Wear disposable gloves when pruning or handling the plant to avoid skin contact with irritant sap
- • Dispose of all pruned plant cuttings securely to prevent accidental ingestion by foraging animals
Treatment & Prognosis
- • Supportive care including frequent oral rinses to remove remaining oxalate crystals
- • Antihistamines or anti-inflammatory medications may be administered to reduce swelling and pain
- • Fluid therapy may be provided to address dehydration from excessive drooling or vomiting
- • Emergency respiratory support may be required in rare cases of severe airway obstruction
Professional Toxicology
• Sharp microscopic insoluble calcium oxalate crystals embed in soft mucous membrane tissue on contact or ingestion
• Physical damage to tissue triggers immediate pain, swelling, and local inflammatory responses
Information from CliniTox veterinary text.
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Data Sources
This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.