Is Cats Safe?
Is Malanga Safe for Cats?
No — Malanga is toxic to cats.
Malanga 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 Malanga away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.
| Scientific name | Colocasia esculenta |
|---|---|
| Family | Araceae |
| Category | Plants |
| Toxic principle | Insoluble calcium oxalates |
| Also known as | Caladium, Elephant Ears (Colocasia esculenta), Elephant's Ears, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) |
Signs to watch for in cats
- Oral irritation
- Intense burning and irritation of mouth
- Tongue and lips
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
If your cat may have been exposed to Malanga:
- Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
- Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
- 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 Malanga — check each one:
Cat-safe alternatives
Browse all Plants for cats · or check another item.
Frequently asked questions
Is Malanga toxic to cats?
Yes. Malanga 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 Malanga?
Reported signs include: Oral irritation, Intense burning and irritation of mouth, Tongue and lips, Excessive drooling, Vomiting, Difficulty swallowing.
What makes Malanga toxic to cats?
The harmful component reported for Malanga is Insoluble calcium oxalates. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.
How much Malanga 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 Malanga?
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).