Is Dieffenbachia (dumb Cane) Toxic to Cats?

Dieffenbachia seguine

Dieffenbachia has a high concentration of calcium oxalate crystals and a protein that amplifies the irritation. Chewing causes intense pain and swelling of the tongue and throat.

Most cases settle with supportive care, but swelling of the airway is the reason this plant needs a vet call rather than a wait — noisy breathing or a swollen tongue is an emergency in any animal.

Which parts are dangerous

• leaves
• stems
• sap

What to watch for in the UK

• A large statement houseplant with variegated leaves.
• Sold in garden centres and often inherited with a flat.
• Trimmed sap is a skin irritant for people too.
• Keep it well above a cat's reach or rehome it.

If your cat has already chewed it

1. Phone your vet immediately if there is any breathing noise or swelling.
2. Rinse the mouth with water if safe to do so.
3. Do not rub the mouth — it spreads the crystals.

Take a photo of the plant, and a cutting if you can do it safely — identification is half of the vet's decision. Out of hours, use your practice's emergency number. This page explains risk; it cannot diagnose your cat and it contains no home treatments.

If your cat has vomited after eating a plant, see the cat vomiting guide and, if there is blood, vomiting blood. For a general red-flag checklist, use sick cat symptoms. If the worry is food rather than a plant, the can cats eat guide covers 36 everyday foods.

Related plants

Browse the full UK plant checklist (72 plants).