Is Australian Umbrella Tree toxic to dogs and cats?
How serious is Australian Umbrella Tree for pets?
Calcium oxalate crystals cause intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue, with drooling and difficulty swallowing. Rarely life-threatening but very uncomfortable: most cases resolve with supportive care.
Schefflera actinophylla
Also called: Australian Ivy Palm, Octopus Tree, and Starleaf.
What makes it toxic
- Terpenoids
- Saponins
- Insoluble oxalates
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Symptoms to watch for
- Mild vomiting
- Diarrhea
What to do if your pet chewed it
- Move the plant out of reach so they cannot take another bite.
- If your pet is alert, gently rinse their mouth and offer a little water.
- Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435, especially if you see drooling, vomiting, swelling, or lethargy.
Pet-safe swaps
The same green look without the toxicity worry. Each of these is non-toxic to both dogs and cats in our data.
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Buy Apollo a treatQuick answers about Australian Umbrella Tree
Is Australian Umbrella Tree toxic to cats?
Yes, Australian Umbrella Tree is toxic to cats. See all 127 plants toxic to cats.
Is Australian Umbrella Tree toxic to dogs?
Yes, Australian Umbrella Tree is toxic to dogs. See all 124 plants toxic to dogs.
What is Australian Umbrella Tree also called?
Australian Umbrella Tree (Schefflera actinophylla) is also called Australian Ivy Palm, Octopus Tree, and Starleaf.
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Scan your plantAlways confirm with a veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) before assuming safety. This is a household reference, not a substitute for professional guidance in a suspected poisoning.
· Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control.
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