Elephant ear plants (also called Alocasia, Caladium, Taro, Pai, Ape, Cape, Via, Via sori, and Malanga) are known for their big, beautiful leaves that look like elephant ears. While these plants bring a tropical feel to your home, they are dangerous for pets. Every part of the plant, from the stems to the roots, is toxic to pets.
One cat owner almost lost their cat, Bijou, who was about to nibble on an elephant ear plant. The owner had a feeling the plant could be harmful, so they stopped the cat just in time. This shows how important it is to be aware of the risks and protect your pets.
Why Are Elephant Ear Plants Toxic?
Elephant ear plants have sharp crystals called calcium oxalate. If a pet chews on the plant, these crystals hurt their mouth, tongue, and throat, causing pain, swelling, and burning. In some cases, the swelling can make it hard for pets to breathe.
The plant’s juice can also irritate your pet’s skin and cause painful wounds. Even touching the plant can harm your pet.
There are two ways pets can be poisoned: skin contact (topical) and eating the plant (oral).
Symptoms of Elephant Ear Poisoning in Pets
If your pet eats an elephant ear plant, you might see these symptoms:
Oral Symptoms:
- Burning and pain in the mouth, tongue, or lips
- Swelling in the mouth, tongue, or lips
- Drooling too much
- Pawing at the mouth
- Foaming at the mouth
Stomach Symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Trouble swallowing
- Not eating
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
Other Symptoms:
- Tiredness
- Hoarse voice
- Trouble breathing
- Heart problems (in severe cases)
- Seizures (in severe cases)
- Kidney failure (in severe cases)
- Coma (in very severe cases)
If your pet eats any part of the elephant ear plant, vomiting is common, even in horses.
What to Do if Your Pet Eats Elephant Ear Plant
If you think your pet ate the plant, get them to the vet fast. Treatment is important to help them recover. While you wait for help, follow these steps:
- Remove the plant: Take any plant pieces out of your pet’s mouth.
- Rinse the mouth: Gently rinse with cool water.
- Clean the face: Wash any plant residue off the face and eyes.
- Don’t make them vomit: Only do this if the vet says to.
- Collect vomit: If they vomit, collect it for the vet.
- Bring a sample of the plant: If possible, bring a part of the plant to the vet.
Veterinary Treatment for Elephant Ear Poisoning
When you get to the vet, they’ll check your pet’s health and see if the symptoms are from the elephant ear plant. They may check your pet’s temperature, heartbeat, and breathing. Blood tests may be done to check the organs.
There is no antidote, but treatment focuses on easing the symptoms. This may include:
- Flushing eyes and mouth with water
- Giving fluids to prevent dehydration
- Watching vital signs
- Giving medication to help control vomiting and pain
Cost of Treatment
Treatment costs between $100 and $500, with an average of $300.
Recovery and Prognosis
Most pets recover completely with quick treatment. While the poisoning can be serious, it is rarely fatal. Most pets feel better within 24 hours. But it may take up to two weeks for a full recovery. Kidney damage can happen in severe cases.
Preventing Elephant Ear Poisoning
Here are ways to keep your pets safe from elephant ear plants:
- Put plants in places pets can’t reach.
- Use barriers like fences if the plants are outside.
- Train pets to leave the plant alone.
- Choose pet-safe plants instead.
Safe Alternatives to Elephant Ear Plants
If you need pet-friendly plants, try these:
Flowering Plants:
- African violet
- Gerbera daisy
- Orchid
- Flamingo flower
Foliage Plants:
- Banana plant
- Boston fern
- Baby rubber plant
- Prayer plant
- Mexican breadfruit
- Cast iron plant
- Areca palm
Succulents:
- Haworthia
- Elephant-foot tree
- American rubber plant
Conclusion
Elephant ear plants are beautiful but dangerous for pets. Keep them out of reach, train your pets to avoid them, and choose safe plants. If your pet eats one, get them to the vet fast. With quick care, most pets fully recover.