Houseplants are found in almost every home. They brighten your living space, help to purify indoor air, and have been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression. Plus, many people find caring for plants therapeutic.
Unfortunately, if you have felines, you should avoid bringing some houseplants into your home due to their toxic properties. Especially since cats are notoriously mischievous and prone to chewing on things.
Which plants are toxic to Cats?
Important: The ASPCA provides a searchable database of Toxic and Non-toxic Plants and a List of poisonous Plants to cats chosen by the society. This list includes common plants linked to animals’ systemic effects and severe gastrointestinal tract effects. Here are some common houseplants to avoid if you have cats.
1. Jade Plant (Crassula)
Toxicity Level: low
The jade plant is also called a money plant or dollar plant. This is a low-light succulent you can grow in your home that is thought to bring good fortune and good luck to the owner. Their dark green fleshy leaves and thick, wood-like stems cause vomiting, neurological symptoms such as incoordination, and even depression in some cases.
Other Names: Dwarf rubber plant, Baby Jade, Jade tree, Japanese rubber plant, and Chinese rubber plant
Toxin: Unknown
Poisonous plant parts: the whole plant
Symptoms: some reported symptoms are vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, and weakness, to name a few.
Alternative: Echeveria
If you enjoy succulents and have a cat, avoid jade plants. Rather, stock up on blue-grey Echeveria.
This is a common indoor plant, which is non-toxic to cats and comes in various colors and shades.
2. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
Toxicity Level: low
Dumbcane comes in wide varieties, including giant dumb cane, charming dieffenbachia, and exotica perfect. All of them are considered house plants poisonous to cats. Several symptoms are associated with it, including increased drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting, as reported by the ASPCA.
Other Name: Giant Dumb Cane, Tropic Snow, Dumbcane, Exotica Perfection, Exotica, Spotted Dumb Cane, Charming Dieffenbachia.
Toxin: calcium oxalate crystals
Poisonous plant parts: the whole plant
Symptoms: some reported symptoms are intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and excessive drooling.
Alternative: Prayer Plant
However, the Prayer Plant, which resembles a dumb cane and is most distinguishable by its beautiful decorative leaves, is cat-safe and vet-approved.
With its stunning, unique foliage and vibrant colors, Prayer Plant adds a pop of color to any room. It’s relatively small and easy to care for, making it perfect for small spaces.
3. Peace Lilies (Spathiphyllum)
Toxicity Level: middle
This indoor plant is beautiful but especially toxic to your cat, even killing them occasionally. They are a well-liked option because of their dark leaves, white blossoms, and minimal maintenance needs. However, peace lilies contain calcium oxalates. These are poisonous to cats and can harm them by infiltrating their tissues.
Other Name: Asiatic lily, Easter lily, Stargazer lily, tiger lily, Rubrum, Western lily, Wood lily, Japanese show lily, Red lily, Daylily
Toxin: calcium oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: petals or leaves
Symptoms: Vomiting, Decreased appetite, Pawing at the mouth, Oral pain, Drooling
Alternative: White Orchid
Instead of lilies, try a white orchid. They’re non-toxic to pets, beautiful, and surprisingly simple to care for.
Elegant and refined, the White Orchid brings a touch of sophistication and tranquility to any room. Its cat-friendly reputation makes it a worry-free choice for pet owners.
4. Aloe Vera
Toxicity Level: middle
Aloe Vera is well known for its healing characteristics, according to the National Library of Medicine. It is a popular household plant that can be used for medicinal purposes. However, this plant can be toxic to cats.
ASPCA reports, that the thick plant material surrounding the gel can cause gastro upset (including vomiting), lethargy, and diarrhea.
Other Name: Barbados Aloe, Medicine Plant, True Aloe
Toxin: saponins
Poisonous plant parts: juice and pulp
Symptoms: some reported symptoms include a change in urine color (mostly red) and vomiting.
Alternative: Haworthia Zebra
Alternatively, the Haworthia Zebra succulent is more miniature, resembles Aloe Vera in appearance, and is not toxic to cats.
Its low watering needs and ability to tolerate neglect make it an excellent choice for busy pet owners.
5. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Toxicity Level: middle
The Snake Plant is well-known for being one of the best plants for low light conditions and improving air quality, making it a popular pot plant.
A cat will experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if it consumes or chews on snake plants. It contains saponins, a compound that causes the above-highlighted effects.
Other Name: Golden bird’s nest, Mother-in-law’s tongue, Sansevieria trifasciata, Snake plant, Good luck plant
Toxin: Saponins
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Vomiting, Lethargy or depression, Decreased appetite, Drooling
Alternative: Rattlesnake Plant
On the other hand, the Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea Lancifolia) is a non-toxic plant with beautiful, lush, and pointed leaves resembling a snake plant.
It’s relatively easy to care for and can grow well in low-light conditions.
6. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Toxicity Level: low
The small, pointed leaves of English ivy make for a light display. Because of its lovely drapery, it is popular as an indoor plant grown in hanging planters. This same feature can make it appear to curious felines as an appealing snack, which can be extremely dangerous if consumed. Ingestion can result in vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, and diarrhea, based on the ASPCA.
Other Name: Glacier Ivy, Needlepoint Ivy, California Ivy Sweetheart Ivy, English Ivy
Toxin: Triterpenoid saponins (hederagenin)
Poisonous plant parts: Foliage is more toxic than berries
Symptoms: Hypersalivation, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain
Alternative: Swedish Ivy
Instead of English Ivy, try Swedish Ivy for a cascading effect. It is a versatile, low-maintenance climber that’s perfect for hanging baskets or trained-up walls.
Trailing vines of delicate white flowers and rounded leaves make Swedish Ivy a charming addition to any room. You can enjoy its beauty without worrying about your cat’s safety.
7. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Toxicity Level: middle
This plant has several names, including Devil’s Ivy, golden pothos, and taro vine. Epipremnum takes little care and is also attractively leafy! Unfortunately, this evergreen liana is not safe for your feline friend.
It contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which irritate cats’ mouths, throats, tongues, and lips. This toxic components cause intense burning, excessive drooling (hypersalivation), vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Other Name: Taro Vine, Ivy Arum, Pothos, Golden Pothos, Epipremnum aureum, Marble Queen, Scindapsus spp., Devil’s ivy, Hunter’s robe
Toxin: Insoluble calcium oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
Alternative: Spider plants
Spider plants are an excellent alternative. They are incredibly resilient plants that can grow in various environments. Variegated spider plants have beautifully draping grass-like leaves that are non-toxic to cats.
The Spider Plant is loved for its arching leaves, delicate white flowers and easy propagation, as it produces “baby” plants effortlessly. It adapts well to various light conditions and can help purify the air indoors.
8. Philodendron (Monstera Deliciosa)
Toxicity Level: middle
Monstera deliciosa, with its stunning tropical foliage, is one of the most popular tropical houseplants. You can find it in homes as well as offices, or as a garden decoration.
Monsteras, also known as “Swiss cheese plants” or “Split-leaf philodendrons”. They are low-maintenance plants that make an attractive addition to any home.
That’s poisonous to cats plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which are highly toxic to cats.
Other Name: Window Leaf Plant, Hurricane Plant, Ceriman, Mexican Breadfruit, Split-leaf Philodendron, Swiss Cheese Plant
Toxin: Insoluble calcium oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.
Alternative: Chinese Palm
Alternatively, the Chinese Palm plant is eye-catching and safe for cats.
With its elegant, fan-shaped leaves, the Chinese Palm adds a tropical touch to indoor spaces. This resilient plant thrives in low light, making it perfect for offices or dim corners of your home.
9. Sago palm (Cycadaceae).
Toxicity Level: high
In the interior, palms bring lushness and tropical vibes, but not all of them are pet-friendly. As reported by the poison control center, the Sago Palm contains cycasin, which is extremely toxic to cats. Because it could cause fatalities and serious gastrointestinal and liver damage, it should be avoided at all costs.
Other Name: Zamias, Macrozamia, Cycas circinalis, Japanese cycas Zamia pumila, Cardboard palm, Zamia furfuracea, Cycad revolute, Coontie plant, Cycads, Cycadaceae
Toxin: Cycasin, B-methylamino-l-alanine, unidentified neurotoxin (cattle)
Poisonous plant parts: Every part of the sago palm is considered poisonous, with the seeds (nuts) being the most toxic.
Symptoms: Clinical signs of liver failure include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, abnormal fluid accumulation in the abdomen, abdominal pain, jaundice, and black, tarry stools.
Alternative: Parlor Palm
For a similar tropical vibe, try Parlor Palm. It will bring fresh greenery to your interior and cats-save, which makes it a worthy substitute for Cycas.
Its ability to thrive in low-light conditions and lowmaintenance needs make it an excellent choice for busy cat owners.
10. Amaryllis (Amaryllidaceae)
Toxicity Level: middle
These flowering plants are pretty easy on the eye and Less toxic than lilies, but still a bit dangerous for your beloved pet. The large, vibrant flowers found in floral arrangements and in bulbs may attract cats.
According to the ASPCA, if they eat this type of lily, it can have consequences.
The common signs of poisoning in this case will be stomach pain, vomiting, and a decreased appetite.
Other Name: Belladonna Lily, Jersey Lily, Naked Lady March Lily
Toxin: Lycorine and others
Poisonous plant parts: The leaves, stems, and bulbs contain phenanthridine alkaloids, which can cause vomiting, low blood pressure (hypotension), and respiratory depression.
Symptoms: Hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, anorexia, tremors, depression
Alternative: Orchids
Orchids, on the other hand, provide an exotic burst of color while being cat-friendly. Their unique beauty and symbolic representation of love and luxury make them a superior, safe choice for homes with pets.
The orchid will live longer if you repot it in a pot with fresh substrate after buying it.
11. Cyclamen
Toxicity Level: middle
The cyclamen is a lovely houseplant that is widely available in supermarkets. It’s also known as Persian violet and Sowbread. Cyclamen contains irritating saponins. If your cat chews or ingests any part of the plant (especially the tubers or roots), she’ll poison herself.
These plants can cause cardiac problems (e.g., abnormal heart rate and rhythm), seizures, and death if consumed in large quantities.
Other Name: Alpine Violet, Persian Violet, and Sowbread
Toxin: Terpenoid saponins
Poisonous plant parts: any part of the plant (especially the tubers or roots)
Symptoms: Symptoms include salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. Large ingestions of tubers can lead to heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures, and death.
Alternative: Impatiens flowers
On the other hand, Impatiens flowers are cat-friendly and make excellent balconies and garden plants. Impatiens offer vibrant blooms in a range of colors, perfect for adding brightness to shaded areas.
They’re low-maintenance annuals that thrive in moist soil and indirect sunlight, creating a cheerful environment.
12. Dracaena (Corn Plant)
Toxicity Level: middle
Dogs and cats are poisoned by corn plants (also known as cornstalk plant, dracaena, dragon tree, and ribbon plant). Saponin is the plant’s chemical toxic component. If this plant is ingested, it may result in nausea, vomiting, depression, appetite loss, or increased salivation.
Other Name: Corn Plant, Cornstalk Plant, Ribbon Plant, Madagascar Dragon Tree, Money tree, Lucky Bamboo
Toxin: Saponins
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Vomiting (occasionally with blood), depression, anorexia, hypersalivation, dilated pupils.
Alternative: Ponytail Palm
A great alternative for adding a touch of green to your interior without leaving an unpleasant aftertaste for your pets is the ponytail palm.
This endearing palm tree boasts a unique “ponytail” of curly leaves that will captivate anyone who enters the room.
13. Lily
Toxicity Level: high
Lilies according to the ASPCA, Lilies are considered the most dangerous flowers for pets. The Hemerocallis and Lilium species (real lilies) are regarded as the most dangerous plants. Examples include Asiatic, stargazer, wood, red, western, tiger, and Rubrum Lilies.
The Hemerocallis genera include daylilies, which are likewise quite dangerous. A cat can perish by ingesting a lily leaf or petal, licking pollen off its claws, or drinking water from a vase of cut lilies since they are so deadly.
Other Name: Lilium species
Toxin: Insoluble calcium oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: Bulbs are the most poisonous part.
Symptoms: Vomiting, salvation, diarrhea; large ingestions cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors and cardiac arrhythmias.
Alternative: Bromeliad
As a substitute, Bromeliad blooms are cat-friendly and have beautiful flowers. They have quite long leaves for a plant known for its drought tolerance.
They are low maintenance and thrive in indirect light and moderate humidity.
14. Arrowhead plant
Toxicity Level: middle
A well-liked tropical plant that thrives indoors is the Arrowhead plant, sometimes called the Goosefoot plant. According to the ASPCA animal poison control, arrowhead plants are poisonous to cats.
If your cat chews on the arrowhead vine, he will immediately be exposed to oxalate crystals, irritating his mouth. If your cat consumes some of the plant’s contents, he may develop symptoms such as difficulty breathing, vomiting, and excessive drooling.
Other Name: Syngonium, Nephthytis, Green Gold Naphthysis, African Evergreen, Trileaf Wonder, Arrowhead Vine, Goosefoot plant
Toxin: Insoluble calcium oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Difficulty swallowing, Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling
Alternative: Cast Iron Plant
The Cast Iron Plant is a Arrowhead plant substitute that won’t harm cats. This plant can also survive a lot of neglect and challenging growing circumstances, such as little light.
Named for its rugged durability, the Cast Iron Plant is virtually indestructible – perfect for those new to plant parenthood or with busy schedules.
15. Asparagus fern
Toxicity Level: low
Asparagus fern poisons canines and felines (also known as an emerald feather, emerald fern, sprengeri fern, plumosa fern, and lace fern). The dangerous substance in this plant is sapogenin, a steroid in many plants. This plant’s berries can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal pain in dogs and cats that eat them.
Other Name: Asparagus, Emerald Feather, Emerald Fern, Sprengeri Fern, Plumosa Fern, Lace Fern, Racemose Asparagus, Shatavari
Toxin: sapogenin
Poisonous plant parts: all parts
Symptoms: Repeated skin exposure can cause allergic dermatitis. Ingesting berries may lead to gastric upset, including vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea.
Alternative: Boston Fern
Boston ferns are a pet-safe alternative. These plants will thrive as indoor plants if you provide them with the proper lighting, food, watering, and temperatures.
Boston fern purifies the air and brings a touch of nature indoors, creating a calming environment for both you and your cats.
16. Begonia
Toxicity Level: middle
Even though begonias are beautiful, many species are toxic to cats. If your cat swallows them, they can be harmful to his health as they contain soluble calcium oxalates. Begonia can cause considerable damage and discomfort to cats and other small mammals, even if a small amount is present. Keep your cat safe from this greenery, it is toxic to cats if ingested.
Other Name: Over 1,000 species and 10,000 hybrids
Toxin: Soluble calcium oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: The most toxic part of the plant is located underground
Symptoms: Kidney failure, vomiting, salivation, lethargy, and a decrease in appetite
Alternative: Peperomia Ginny
Alternatively, despite its small size, The Peperomia Ginny is extremely resilient. It is also non-toxic to cats and can thrive in various climates.
Its compact size makes it perfect for shelves or small pots.
17. Bird of Paradise Flower
Toxicity Level: low
A lush tropical plant with flowers resembling colorful birds may add glitz to your home. Can such an aesthetic be a major red flag if you own a cat?
The Bird of Paradise may appear to be a top-tier decorative houseplant, but if you have a furry little pet, the ribbons can turn red. These plants are toxic to cats and could cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and disorientation if ingested.
Other Name: Crane Flower, Bird’s Tongue Flower
Toxin: GI irritants
Poisonous plant parts: fruit and seeds
Symptoms: Mild nausea, vomiting, drowsiness
Alternative: Sunflowers
Sunflowers are an excellent alternative because even a single yellow blossom can brighten up a room and are also cat-safe.
They’re not only safe for cats but also relatively easy to care for and can grow well in indoor conditions. Their large size makes them perfect for corners or statement pieces.
18. Caladium
Toxicity Level: middle
It’s no surprise that the Elephant Ear is a popular houseplant because it’s leafy and exotic-looking. Unfortunately, if you have a cat, you should avoid it. Caladium contains calcium oxalates, which cause kidney failure, in accordance with the ASPCA.
Other Name: Malanga, Elephant’s Ears, Stoplight, Seagull, Mother-in-law Plant, Pink Cloud, Texas Wonder, Angel-Wings, Exposition, Candidum, Fancy-leaved Caladium
Toxin: Insoluble calcium oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
Alternative: Polka Dot Plant
The caladium and polka dot plants are nearly identical, but you’ll want to go with the Polka Dot Plant if you have pets. Featuring playful spots on its leaves, this charming plant brings a fun touch to any room.
Its compact size and colorful appearance make it a delightful option for plant enthusiasts seeking vibrant decor without worry about pets.
19. Chinese Evergreen
Toxicity Level: middle
Aglaonema, also known as the Chinese Evergreen, is a popular pot plant in homes and offices because of its durability and ornamental value
As per the ASPCA, Chinese evergreens are toxic to pets. Swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, and vomiting are all possible side effects.
Other Name: Aglaonema, Diamond bay, Emerald bay, Moonlight bay, Stripes
Toxin: Insoluble calcium oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
Alternative: Fishbone Cactus
Fishbone Cactus, which is harmless to cats, is a good alternative. In Chinese culture, they believe it will bring balance to your home.
With its distinctive, zigzag-shaped stems, the Fishbone Cactus is a unique and eye-catching plant. It is perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your space while keeping your furry friends safe.
20. Kalanchoe
Toxicity Level: low
Mother-in-Law Plant, Devil’s Backbone, Chandelier Plant, and Mother of Millions are these plants’ names. Even though it is not one of the most hazardous plants for cats, the ubiquitous houseplant kalanchoe may cause your cat to feel queasy.
The consumption of large quantities of kalanchoe plants could cause abnormal heart rhythms or rates, although this is a rare side effect. Keep kalanchoe plants away from cats in your house.
Other Name: Mother-In-Law-Plant, Devils Backbone, Chandelier Plant, Mother of Millions
Toxin: Bufodienolides
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Ingestion by dogs and cats typically causes gastrointestinal irritation or upset. However, consuming a large amount can lead to more severe symptoms, including changes in heart rate and rhythm, weakness, and collapse.
Alternative: Air Plants
The good news is that air plants are an excellent alternative. They belong to plants that are safe for felines. Air Plants are epiphytes that don’t require soil and can thrive in indoor conditions. They require little watering and provide an eye-catching option for small pots and containers.
21. Anthurium
Toxicity Level: middle
Cats are poisoned by the Anthurium Plant, also known as the flamingo flower or Tailflower. Flowers like this one are stunning, colorful, and vibrant, attracting people and animals alike. You should always keep in mind that all parts of the plant are poisonous. Therefore, if your cat eats the stems, leaves, flowers, or seeds of the plant, it can be poisoned by the calcium oxalate crystals they contain. Ingestion symptoms include mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting.
Other Name: Flamingo Plant, Flamingo Lily, Tail Flower, Oilcloth Flower, Painter’s Pallet, Flamingo Flower
Toxin: Insoluble calcium oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: all parts of the plant
Symptoms: Symptoms include oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Alternative: African Violets
African violets, which bloom in various colors, are an excellent substitute. They are ideal for those looking for a low-maintenance, blooming plant.
The beauty of African violets enhances spaces without posing any risk to your cats. Their compact size makes them perfect for shelves or small pots.
22. Poinsettia
Toxicity Level: low
Ironically, poinsettias, one of the most common Christmas plants that can damage pets, may not be as bad for animals as originally believed. Due to the low level of toxicity associated with Poinsettia consumption, medical intervention is rarely necessary unless symptoms are severe or persistent.
Pets who have consumed poinsettias may experience mild symptoms like vomiting, drooling, and, very rarely, diarrhea. The milky sap may cause the cat’s skin to be red, puffy, and itchy.
Other Name: Euphorbia, lobster flower, flame leaf flower, Flower of the Holy Night, Flower of Christmas Eve, Crown of the Andes, Easter flower
Toxin: euphorbol esters and saponin-like detergents
Poisonous plant parts: The milky white sap
Symptoms: Mild symptoms may include vomiting, drooling, and, rarely, diarrhea.
Alternative: Roses
Choose roses instead of poinsettias. While they may require more maintenance than other plants on this list, roses are safe for cats and worth the extra effort.
Timeless and elegant, they bring a touch of romance to any space. With proper care, they can thrive indoors and delight you with their beauty and fragrance.
23. Schefflera (Umbrella tree)
Toxicity Level: middle
Dwarf Schefflera – commonly known as Umbrella Plant, Octopus Tree, Stargazer. It is most dangerous to cats and dogs.
It can cause vomiting, kidney problems, heart and respiratory problems, and mouth. It can cause vomiting, kidney problems, heart and respiratory problems, and mouth. The implications can also be lip and tongue irritation, drooling, and burning. All parts of the Schefflera plant contain “sharp” calcium oxalate crystals that are insoluble. Animals that ingest them suffer damage to their cells and tissues.
Other Name: Schefflera, Umbrella Tree, Australian Ivy Palm, Starleaf
Toxin: Terpenoids, saponins, insoluble oxalates
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Mild vomiting, diarrhea.
Alternative: Rhapis Palm
As an alternative, not only is the Rhapis Palm non-toxic to cats, but it also purifies the air. It thrives in low light, making it suitable for various spaces.
The Rhapis Palm, or Lady Palm, has a graceful appearance with its feathery fronds and slender stems. Its non-toxic properties ensure your feline friends can safely lounge nearby.
24. Tradescantia
Toxicity Level: middle
Most people are familiar with tradescantia, a type of spiderwort. Spiderwort is a common trailing, low-growing outdoor plant with stems hanging down, giving the appearance of vines descending to the ground.
The purple and green variegated Tradescantia zebrina, also known as an inch plant, is the most common. Although its variegated leaves are great for decorations raise the risk of dermatitis, a skin disorder, and are harmful to cats.
Other Name: Wandering Jew
Toxin: Dermatitis
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: Mild vomiting, diarrhea
Alternative: Birds Nest Fern
Its alternative, the Birds Nest Fern, resembles a pointier, fancier version of kale, but it will not harm your cat if she nibbles on it.
With its lush, wavy fronds, the Birds Nest Fern adds a tropical feel to indoor spaces.
25. Yucca plant
Toxicity Level: middle
Unfortunately, the yucca plant and cats can be a dangerous combination. The harmful chemical component called saponins is the culprit in the yucca plant, as it is in many of the plants potentially toxic to cats. Yucca plant toxicity symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, and a loss of coordination.
Other Name: Adam’s needle, common yucca, Spanish bayonet, bear-grass, needle-palm, silk-grass, and spoon-leaf yucca.
Toxin: Saponins
Poisonous plant parts: leaves
Symptoms: When dogs and cats ingest yucca, it typically results in mild vomiting and diarrhea, weakness, incoordination and dilated pupils
Alternative: Majesty Palm
The Majesty Palm grows to be several feet tall and is another excellent alternative that is safe for cats. It does not have any chemical component that will harm the pet.
Conclusion
Plants can cheer up a space and make you and your pet happy. A judicious choice of houseplants is crucial to ensure that your pet does not ingest poisonous substances that some plants contain, such as calcium oxalates.
Check the ASPCA List of Toxic Plants or the Pet Poison Helpline’s Poison List to be sure a new plant is safe for your pet before bringing it home. Reach out to Animal Poison Control or your veterinarian immediately if you believe your pet has consumed a hazardous home plant.
FAQ’s
What to do if your cat ate a toxic plant?
You should act immediately if you suspect your cat has eaten a toxic plant. First of all, try to make sure that the cat doesn’t go near the poisonous plant and chew on it anymore. Take note of the time the cat ate the plant and any symptoms that may have occurred.
You ought to keep your composure and remove any plant parts from the area around your cat before visiting the vet’s office, among other things.
After that, identify the ingested plant and contact the vet clinic for support. Be sure to take a sample of the plant with you to show to the veterinarian.
How to keep cats away from toxic plants?
As explained in our other article, “How to keep cats away from plants indoors“, there are various ways to keep cats away from plants that are poisonous, including using Repellent Sprays; once your kitty encounters them, they are unlikely to return for a repeat visit.
The key is to make the plants unappealing or inaccessible to your cat. If you have shelves or other high surfaces in your home, consider placing the toxic plants there so that your cat cannot access them
What are the signs of poisoning in a cat?
Poisoning symptoms in cats vary depending on the active ingredient in the toxin. Still, most poisons cause gastrointestinal distress and neurological changes. Common signs are labored respiratory, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, and coughing.
What Occurs If A Feline Consumes A Poisonous Plant?
Due to cats’ fastidious nature and careful eating habits, poisoning is generally uncommon in them. Nevertheless, young cats and cats who are bored or curious can nibble on plants and flowers, and cats when groomed can ingest pollen, needles, and seeds.
Even if a plant may be poisonous, that does not necessarily make it deadly. After ingestion, many pets will experience gastrointestinal discomfort and symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty swallowing. But only in the most extreme cases can death follow poisoning.
Do not hesitate to call your local Healthy Pet Club practice if you suspect your cat has eaten something toxic. If you wait for signs of poisoning to appear, it may be too late.
Disclaimer
The content of this page is not veterinary advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition. If you are concerned about your pet’s health, it is strongly recommended that you contact your veterinarian for professional medical advice.
Author
Susan is a plant lover with over 10 years of experience caring for houseplants. She enjoys watching her plants thrive and sharing her knowledge with others. As the writer for this website, Susan offers simple, practical tips to help readers grow happy and healthy plants.
