Anyone who lives with cats knows they are curious about most everything! However, that curiosity can be bad when it comes to houseplants causing pet toxicity. About 230,000 pets suffer poisoning yearly, according to the American Humane Society. Even if your cat does not eat or chew a plant, it could be exposed if it brushes against the plant and then grooms itself. If you are a home gardener, plant lover, and pet lover, be aware of and avoid these and other toxic houseplants for cats:
1. Ivy
Ivy foliage can be harmful if cats consume it. Symptoms to look out for include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and difficulty breathing. It is best to keep cats away from all ivy plants as they are very toxic.
2. Caladium
This ornamental plant is in the same family as lilies which are also known to be toxic to cats. It contains calcium crystals that can enter your feline friend’s bloodstream and is poisonous to cats. It is best to keep these plants far away from any cats.
3. Sago palm
The poison in this plant is called cycasin, and it can cause liver damage and stroke in cats. Possible symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and tremors all of which can be dangerous for a cat to experience. This plant should be kept away from cats when possible.
4. Peace lily
The poison in this plant is from insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which irritate the mouth and gastrointestinal tract and cause kidney damage. Look for symptoms including lethargy, drooling, vomiting, and diminished appetite.
5. Aloe
Aloe is known to be helpful for a variety of human ailments, however, it can be toxic to cats if eaten in large quantities due to the chemicals in their leaves and gel. It also contains latex which can cause nausea and diarrhea in cats.
6. Ferns
While many types are not poisonous for cats, a few are, and none of them will do them any good if they chew on them. The ASPCA says “true ferns,” which include Boston, staghorn and a few others, are generally safe. But asparagus fern has a steroid that can cause abdominal pain and vomiting. In general, the ASPCA says not to let your cat chew on ferns.
7. What to do if your pet ingests a dangerous plant
If you suspect your cat has eaten a plant and you’re not sure whether it’s poisonous, it’s best to immediately remove it from the cat’s mouth. Watch for symptoms, which could occur almost immediately, or within up to 72 hours. Note the symptoms and call a veterinarian to ask for advice, and keep a bit of the plant so you can take it with you to the vet. The good news: While many plants are harmful to cats, most cases of plant poisoning are not fatal.
If your cat insists on nibbling on plants, try strategies such as keeping the plants in an off-limits space, hanging plants so they’re unreachable, or spraying plants with a vinegar solution to deter chewing. If your cat just likes greenery, consider growing catnip or a cat-grass mixture just for them.
