Is Wild Calla Toxic to Cats?

⚠️ Mildly 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.

Wild calla is mildly to moderately toxic to cats. Chewing its leaves or red berries releases calcium oxalate crystals that burn the mouth, usually stopping further eating.

Also known as: Water Arum, Bog Calla, Calla palustris · Calla palustris

What makes it toxic

Insoluble calcium oxalate raphides in leaves, stems and berries, densest in the berries and rootstock. The needle crystals pierce mouth and throat tissue on contact.

Warning signs to watch for

Immediate burning and drooling, pawing at the mouth, mild vomiting and reluctance to eat. Throat swelling severe enough to matter is rare.

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 persist or swelling becomes visible.

Common questions

Is wild calla the same as garden calla lily?

No — Calla palustris is the hardy water arum, while Zantedeschia is the florist calla. Both carry oxalate crystals and the same mild-to-moderate pet risk.

Are the red berries the most dangerous part?

They are among the most concentrated, along with the rootstock, but all fresh tissue carries the crystals. Keep pond-edge foraging off the menu.

More plants checked for cats

Pothos☠️ ToxicYes, pothos is toxic to cats. Chewing the leaves or vines releases sharp calcium oxalate crystal Aloe Vera⚠️ Mildly ToxicAloe vera is mildly to moderately toxic to cats. The gel is famously soothing for human skin, bu Spider Plant✅ Non-ToxicNo, spider plants are non-toxic to cats. They are one of the best houseplants for homes with cur Easter Lily☠️ ToxicYes — and this is one of the most dangerous plants a cat can meet. Every part of an Easter lily,Sago Palm☠️ ToxicYes — sago palm is severely toxic to cats and among the deadliest houseplants. Every part contai Boston Fern✅ Non-ToxicNo, Boston ferns are non-toxic to cats — a classic choice for plant-loving cat households.

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.