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
Heartleaf Philodendron
Philodendron hederaceum
Also known as Philodendron oxycardium
Heartleaf Philodendron is a popular trailing houseplant known for its heart-shaped leaves and ease of care. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
CordatumHeartleaf PhilodendronPhilodendron hederaceumPhilodendron oxycardiumPhilodendron scandensSweetheart Plant
- Light
- Bright indirect to low light
- Habit
- Trailing or climbing
- Care
- Low
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
Ingestion typically causes immediate discomfort due to mechanical irritation from calcium oxalate crystals. Please contact your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of this plant.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Escalation note
The plant causes localized irritation upon contact with the mouth and digestive tract. Please contact your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has ingested any part of this plant.
Safer alternatives
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Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Heartleaf Philodendron is toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Philodendron hederaceum is a vining plant native to Central and South America, widely grown as a houseplant.
Often compared with
Commonly confused with
Share the alias "sweetheart plant".
Philodendron
Philodendron spp.
Philodendrons are popular tropical foliage plants known for their lush, heart-shaped or split leaves. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Both sold as "Philodendron".
Monstera
Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa is a popular tropical houseplant known for its large, fenestrated leaves and vining growth habit. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Same safety verdict
Other plants with the same verdict
Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Dracaena trifasciata is a popular, hardy houseplant known for its stiff, sword-like leaves with striking yellow margins. It is widely appreciated for its air-purifying qualities and ability to thrive in various indoor conditions.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Peace Lily
Spathiphyllum
The Mauna Loa Peace Lily is a popular indoor plant known for its elegant white spathes and lush foliage. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation upon contact or ingestion.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Devil's Ivy is a popular trailing houseplant known for its heart-shaped leaves and ease of care. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a popular succulent known for its medicinal gel, but it contains compounds that can cause digestive distress if ingested by pets. It is widely grown as a houseplant for its architectural foliage and low-maintenance care requirements.
Potentially toxic for cats & dogs.