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Is Caladium Toxic to Dogs?

☠️ ToxicSeverity: Mild
✅ Cross-checked against veterinary poison-control guidance · Oct 2026 audit
⚠️ Educational info only. If your pet just chewed something and looks unwell, skip the reading and call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline (US): (855) 764-7661.
Yes, caladium is toxic to dogs. Any chewed leaf or stem releases oxalate crystals that injure the mouth, tongue and stomach.

Also known as: Angel Wings, Elephant Ear, Heart of Jesus · Caladium bicolor

What makes it toxic

Insoluble calcium oxalate raphides at high density throughout the plant, including tubers. They pierce oral and gastric lining on contact.

Warning signs to watch for

Sudden drooling, oral pain, vomiting, pawing at the mouth and reluctance to eat, starting within minutes.

What to do if your dog eats it

Flush the mouth with water, remove plant material and offer fresh water. Call your vet if vomiting repeats; seek emergency care if swelling affects breathing.

Common questions

My dog ate a stored caladium bulb — what now?

Tubers are crystal-dense, so expect strong mouth pain and vomiting. Call your vet promptly with an estimate of how much was chewed.

Do the pink and red fancy-leaf caladiums differ in toxicity?

No. All cultivars share the same crystal-laden tissue regardless of leaf color.

More plants checked for dogs

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to dogs. Chewing any part of the vine releases calcium oxalate crystals thaAloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to dogs. The skin and latex layer of the leaf contain coSpider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to dogs. A dog that nibbles the arching leaves is not at risk ofEaster Lily⚠️ Mildly ToxicEaster lilies are only mildly toxic to dogs — they usually cause stomach upset, not the fatal kiSago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to dogs, with a documented fatality rate around 50% when untreBoston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to dogs. Chewing a frond will not poison your dog.

This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.