Extensive stomach ulcers due to Dieffenbachia intoxication in a cat

Extensive gastric ulceration was diagnosed endoscopically and histologically in a two-year-old cat with haematemesis, anorexia and severe dehydration. Based on history (previous ingestion of leaf pieces of Dieffenbachia) and exclusion of another cause, intoxication with Dieffenbachia was diagnosed. The toxical effect of Dieffenbachia on mucous membranes is probably explained by ejection of calcium oxalate crystals leading to injury of mast cells and a massive histamine release. Supportive treatment including electrolyte infusions, ranitidine, sucralfate, and forced feeding using an endoscopically placed gastrostomy tube resulted in quick clinical recovery of this cat.