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.
Sources
cat safety reference
Is Skunk Cabbage safe for cats?
Symplocarpus foetidus
Skunk Cabbage is a wetland-dwelling perennial known for its distinct odor and early spring emergence. It contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation upon ingestion.
Eastern skunk cabbageMeadow cabbageSwamp cabbageSymplocarpus foetidus
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Habit
- Clumping perennial
- Care
- High (requires constant moisture)
Safety status
What this means for your cat
Skunk cabbage is a calcium-oxalate plant — its leaves are studded with microscopic crystal needles that lodge in your cat's mouth and tongue on the first chew. Pain is immediate and obvious. The crystals don't get absorbed, so the danger is local and acute rather than systemic.
What to watch for
Most common: intense drooling, pawing at the mouth, vocalization, and refusing food right after chewing. Often: vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Rare but serious: swelling that affects breathing.
Time window
Pet Poison Helpline: signs typically present immediately, occasionally taking up to two hours to appear. Discomfort generally resolves within 12–24 hours of ingestion with supportive care.
When to call the vet
Call immediately if you see swelling of the face or lips, breathing trouble, or persistent drooling that doesn't ease within an hour. For lighter contact, call if vomiting or food refusal continues past 4–6 hours.
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 the 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 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
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Skunk cabbage is listed as toxic to both cats and dogs due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Symplocarpus foetidus is a native perennial that thrives in wet, boggy soils and is characterized by its early spring spathe and spadix.
Same cat verdict
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