Is Dieffenbachia Toxic to Cats or Dogs?
Dieffenbachia spp.
Short answer
Yes. The referenced veterinary poison resources list Dieffenbachia as toxic to both cats and dogs. All parts, especially the stem. Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and proteolytic enzymes.
Toxic Parts
All parts, especially the stem. Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and proteolytic enzymes.
Symptoms if Ingested
- Intense oral irritation
- Excessive drooling
- Oral swelling
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing in severe cases
What to Do Immediately
- 1Contact an emergency veterinarian or animal poison-control service immediately; do not wait for symptoms
- 2Do not induce vomiting or give food, liquids, medication, or another home remedy unless a veterinary professional directs you to do so
- 3Prevent further exposure and bring the plant, label, or a clear photo for identification if it is safe to do so
- 4Tell the professional the animal species, approximate amount, plant part, exposure time, and any symptoms
Emergency Contact
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
The ASPCA number is a United States service and a consultation fee may apply. Outside the U.S., contact a local veterinarian or animal poison-control service. If your pet has ingested any plant material, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Lower-risk alternatives
These alternatives are listed as non-toxic by the referenced source, but no houseplant should be treated as edible or completely risk-free.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dieffenbachia toxic to cats?
Yes. The referenced veterinary poison resources list Dieffenbachia as toxic to cats. All parts, especially the stem. Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and proteolytic enzymes. Possible signs include intense oral irritation, excessive drooling, oral swelling.
Is Dieffenbachia toxic to dogs?
Yes. The referenced veterinary poison resources list Dieffenbachia as toxic to dogs. All parts, especially the stem. Contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and proteolytic enzymes. Possible signs include intense oral irritation, excessive drooling, oral swelling.
What should I do if my pet chews Dieffenbachia?
Contact an emergency veterinarian or animal poison-control service immediately; do not wait for symptoms Do not induce vomiting or give food, liquids, medication, or another home remedy unless a veterinary professional directs you to do so Prevent further exposure and bring the plant, label, or a clear photo for identification if it is safe to do so Tell the professional the animal species, approximate amount, plant part, exposure time, and any symptoms
Sources and review
Content last reviewed: September 4, 2026
Toxicity information referenced from ASPCA and other publicly available pet safety databases. Always consult your veterinarian if your pet has ingested plant material.