Is Malanga Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Yautia, Tannia, Cocoyam, Xanthosoma sagittifolium · Xanthosoma sagittifolium
What makes it toxic
Insoluble calcium oxalate raphides concentrated in the corm and sap. Chewing raw plant tissue drives needle crystals into the mouth, tongue and throat; heat destroys the irritation.
Warning signs to watch for
Immediate burning and drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and reluctance to eat. Breathing difficulty is rare because cats usually stop after one chew.
What to do if your cat eats it
Rinse the mouth with water and offer water or milk. Watch for an hour; call your vet if drooling and vomiting continue or swelling looks significant.
Common questions
Is cooked malanga safe if a cat steals a bite?
Yes — cooking breaks down the oxalate crystals, so cooked corm is not a toxicity problem. The raw plant in the garden is the hazard.
Is malanga the same plant as elephant ear?
They are close Xanthosoma/Colocasia relatives with identical oxalate defenses and the same mild-to-moderate risk profile for pets.
More plants checked for cats
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.