Is Cats Safe?

Is Cordatum Safe for Cats?

Toxic for cats

No — Cordatum is toxic to cats.

Cordatum
Photo: KENPEI · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Cordatum is listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. The toxic component is Insoluble calcium oxalates. Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Cordatum away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.

Scientific namePhilodendron oxycardium
FamilyAraceae
CategoryPlants
Toxic principleInsoluble calcium oxalates
Also known asFiddle-Leaf, Horsehead Philodendron, Heartleaf Philodendron, Panda Plant, Split Leaf Philodendron, Fruit Salad Plant, Red Emerald, Red Princess

Signs to watch for in cats

If your cat may have been exposed to Cordatum:

  1. Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
  2. Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
  3. Call your vet or a 24/7 line now — Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 · ASPCA 888-426-4435.

Other Araceae plants

Plants in the same family (Araceae) are easily confused with Cordatum — check each one:

Cat-safe alternatives

Browse all Plants for cats · or check another item.

Frequently asked questions

Is Cordatum toxic to cats?

Yes. Cordatum is reported toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Keep it away from your cat.

What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Cordatum?

Reported signs include: Oral irritation, Pain and swelling of mouth, Tongue and lips, Excessive drooling, Vomiting (not horses), Difficulty swallowing.

What makes Cordatum toxic to cats?

The harmful component reported for Cordatum is Insoluble calcium oxalates. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.

How much Cordatum is dangerous to cats?

There is no established "safe" amount — sensitivity varies by cat, and small exposures can still cause signs. Treat any exposure as potentially serious rather than waiting to see how much was involved.

What should I do if my cat ate Cordatum?

Contact your vet or a 24/7 animal poison line right away: Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).