Cats & Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
Pet safety reference
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.
African Mask PlantAlocasia spp.Elephant EarKris Plant
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Clumping
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Cats — concern notes
Common signs
Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Escalation note
The presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals causes immediate mechanical irritation. If your cat has ingested any part of this plant, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Escalation note
Ingestion leads to immediate discomfort due to the release of calcium oxalate crystals. Please consult your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has chewed or ingested this plant.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Alocasia is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Provides botanical classification and horticultural requirements for the Alocasia genus.
Often compared with
Same safety verdict
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Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Carnation
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Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Chinese Evergreen
Aglaonema modestum
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Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
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Clivia miniata
Clivia miniata is a popular flowering houseplant known for its vibrant orange or red clusters of blooms. It contains lycorine and other alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal distress if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same growing conditions
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Bay Laurel
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Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Boston Fern
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Uncertain for cats.
Generally safe for dogs.
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Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, variegated leaves. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested or chewed.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.