PlantFunSchefflera Toxic?
Schefflera is confirmed toxic to cats and dogs, with unproven risk for horses
Toxicity is caused by sharp calcium oxalate crystals present in all plant tissues
Exposure typically triggers immediate local irritation and mild gastrointestinal symptoms
FAQ
Is Schefflera toxic to Humans?
Oral burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, mild abdominal pain (Low)
Is Schefflera toxic to Cats?
Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing (Low)
Is Schefflera toxic to Dogs?
Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing (Low)
Is Schefflera toxic to Horses?
No confirmed toxicity data available, risk is currently unknown (Unknown)
Toxicity Details
Oral burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, mild abdominal pain
Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing
Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing
No confirmed toxicity data available, risk is currently unknown
Toxicity Snapshot
First Aid & Prevention
First 30 Minutes
- • Remove all remaining plant material from the affected individual's mouth immediately
- • Rinse the mouth thoroughly with cool clean water to reduce residual irritation
- • Offer small sips of water or plain milk to dilute remaining crystals if the individual is alert and able to swallow
- • Monitor closely for signs of throat swelling or breathing difficulty
Contact Vet Immediately
- • If your pet shows persistent drooling, repeated vomiting, or obvious oral pain
- • If your pet has difficulty swallowing or breathing after exposure
- • If a large volume of plant material was ingested by a small-sized pet
- • If symptoms do not improve within 2 hours of initial first aid
Prevention
- • Keep Schefflera plants placed out of reach of cats, dogs, and young children
- • Wear protective gloves when pruning the plant to avoid sap contact with skin or eyes
- • Inform all household members and pet sitters of the plant's toxic properties
Treatment & Prognosis
- • Supportive care including thorough oral rinsing to remove residual crystals
- • Gastrointestinal protectants may be administered to reduce digestive irritation
- • Anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to reduce swelling and discomfort in severe cases
- • Monitor for airway obstruction if severe oral or throat swelling occurs
Professional Toxicology
• Sharp, insoluble calcium oxalate crystals penetrate mucous membranes of the mouth, throat and digestive tract on contact
• Physical damage to tissue causes immediate pain, inflammation and swelling of affected areas
Information from CliniTox veterinary text.
The following plants look similar and may be confused:
Related Toxic Plants
Download PlantFun App
Identify, grow and care for plants effectively!
Instant Plant ID
Take a photo to quickly identify plants.
Smart Care Reminders
Generate watering and care schedules.
Toxicity & Disease Diagnosis
Identify toxic plants and pests with treatment advice.
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.