Cats
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.
cat safety reference
Is Lacy Tree Philodendron safe for cats?
Philodendron bipinnatifidum
The Lacy Tree Philodendron is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, deeply lobed, glossy green leaves. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested or chewed.
Horsehead PhilodendronPhilodendron bipinnatifidumPhilodendron selloumSplit-leaf PhilodendronThaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Habit
- Upright, shrub-like
- Care
- Moderate
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Cats that bite a lacy tree philodendron leaf usually show it instantly — the leaves are loaded with insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that mechanically embed in the mouth. Expect drooling and head-shaking within minutes; serious systemic toxicity is uncommon, but the discomfort is significant.
What to watch for
Sudden drooling, pawing at the mouth, and head-shaking right after chewing. You may see oral pain, swelling of the lips or tongue, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Severity ranges from mild oral irritation to enough swelling to interfere with eating.
Time window
Oral signs typically appear within minutes of chewing. Pet Poison Helpline notes the crystals cause immediate tissue penetration and irritation; precise duration is not well documented but discomfort generally improves within hours of supportive care.
When to call the vet
Call your veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) any time you see drooling that doesn't quickly settle, swelling of the mouth or tongue, vomiting, or refusal to eat or drink. Airway swelling — though rare — is a get-seen-now situation.
First aid at home
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or your veterinarian as soon as possible. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian instructs you to.
Sources: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline.
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 insoluble calcium oxalate crystals cause immediate mechanical irritation. If your cat has ingested any part of this plant, please contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately.
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
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
This plant is widely known as Philodendron bipinnatifidum or Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum and is noted for its large, deeply divided leaves.
Same cat verdict
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