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Elephant Ear vs. Caladium: which is safe for cats and dogs?

Elephant Ear and Caladium are frequently confused because both plants are commonly referred to by the shared alias Elephant Ear. Despite their different appearances and botanical classifications, both plants are potentially toxic to pets. Each contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate irritation to the mouth and digestive tract if chewed or ingested. Because both Elephant Ear and Caladium pose similar risks to cats and dogs, it is important to keep these plants out of reach of your animals. While the severity of the reaction can vary based on the amount consumed, both plants require immediate veterinary attention if ingestion is suspected.

Elephant Ear

Alocasia spp.

Alocasia is a genus of rhizomatous, broad-leaved perennial plants known for their dramatic, arrow-shaped foliage. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate irritation upon contact with soft tissues.

cat

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

dog

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Full Elephant Ear reference →

Caladium

Caladium hortulanum

Caladiums are popular tropical foliage plants known for their vibrant, heart-shaped leaves. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested.

cat

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

dog

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Full Caladium reference →

Safer alternatives

Safer pick

Calathea

Calathea spp.

Calathea has the same showy patterned foliage without caladium's calcium oxalate irritation.

Generally safe for cats & dogs.

Nerve plant is a smaller pet-safer pick for the same painted-leaf look.

Generally safe for cats & dogs.

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