Malanga, also known as taro root, is a starchy root vegetable commonly found in tropical regions like the Caribbean, South America, and parts of Asia. While malanga is safe for human consumption, it can be toxic to cats if ingested.
Malanga contains calcium oxalate crystals which are poisonous to cats and can cause severe irritation and inflammation in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.
Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.
Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.
Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.
All parts of these plants are extremely poisonous to cats and can quickly lead to death, even with immediate veterinary care.
** Please note: Please note that toxicity level can vary based on the amount ingested and the specific cat. It's always best to keep these plants completely inaccessible to cats and seek immediate veterinary care or call the poison hotline if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant.
If a cat ingests malanga, it may experience a range of unpleasant and potentially dangerous symptoms. These can include:
In severe cases, airway swelling and obstruction can occur which requires immediate veterinary care. Symptoms usually appear within 2 hours of ingestion.
If you suspect your cat has eaten malanga, take it to a veterinarian right away. The vet will perform a physical exam and ask about any plants the cat may have had access to. Diagnosis is usually based on a history of exposure and the visible symptoms.Your vet may recommend:
A: Yes, Malanga, also known as Elephant’s Ear or Caladium, is toxic to cats. Ingestion can cause symptoms such as oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
A: If a cat ingests Malanga, it may exhibit symptoms like increased salivation, vomiting, and mouth irritation. These symptoms require immediate veterinary attention to prevent further complications.
A: Even small amounts of Malanga can be harmful to cats due to the plant’s calcium oxalate crystals. Larger ingestions can cause more severe symptoms, so it’s best to prevent any exposure.
A: For a safer option, consider cat-friendly plants like the Spider Plant or Boston Fern. These alternatives are both non-toxic and provide a pet-friendly environment.
A: To protect your cat, keep Malanga plants out of reach and consider using natural deterrents like citrus sprays. Additionally, providing pet-safe plants and toys can reduce your cat’s interest in harmful plants.
A: If your cat consumes Malanga, contact a veterinarian immediately. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent more serious health issues.
Malanga has been cultivated for thousands of years and is an important food crop in many tropical cultures. It was spread from its native Southeast Asia to other parts of the world through exploration and trade.In Hawaii, malanga is a canoe plant – one of about 24 plant species brought to the islands by the first Polynesian settlers in their sailing canoes. It has remained a staple of Hawaiian cuisine.
The calcium oxalate crystals that make malanga toxic to cats likely evolved as a natural defense mechanism against herbivores and parasites. Malanga isn’t the only plant to contain these crystals – they are also found in philodendron, dieffenbachia, caladium, and other common houseplants.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
