Cats are beloved members of many households, known for their curiosity and playful nature. However, their inquisitive tendencies can sometimes lead them to explore and chew on houseplants, some of which can be toxic and pose serious health risks.
As a responsible cat owner, it’s crucial to be aware of which plants are safe and which are harmful to your feline friend. This article will guide you through identifying common toxic plants to avoid, safe alternatives to consider, and what steps to take if your cat accidentally ingests a harmful plant.
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What plants should you have if you own a cat?
Having a cat doesn’t mean you have to forgo having plants in your home. There are many cat-safe plants that can add beauty to your living space without posing a risk to your feline friend. Here are some plants that are safe for cats:
Spider Plant
Spider plants are excellent choices for cat owners. They are non-toxic and easy to care for. Cats often enjoy playing with the long, arching leaves, and the plant itself is resilient enough to handle a bit of roughhousing.
Cat Grass
Cat grass is a great option for indoor cats. It typically consists of wheat, oats, or barley and is safe for cats to nibble on. It can provide enrichment and help with their digestion. You can grow cat grass in small pots around your home.
Catnip
Catnip is a well-known favourite among cats. It’s safe and can provide a lot of entertainment for your feline friend. You can grow catnip in pots indoors or outdoors, and your cat will likely enjoy both the scent and the taste.
Areca Palm
The areca palm, also known as the butterfly palm, is a cat-safe plant that can add a tropical touch to your home. It is non-toxic to cats and relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for pet owners.
Boston Fern
Boston ferns are another safe option for cat owners. They prefer humid environments and indirect light, making them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. Cats may be tempted to play with the fronds, but this hardy plant can withstand a bit of cat-induced wear and tear.
Calathea
Calatheas are beautiful, non-toxic plants with striking, patterned leaves. They thrive in low to medium light and high humidity. Calatheas are safe for cats and can add a touch of elegance to your home.
Bamboo Palm
Bamboo palms are cat-safe and can grow quite tall, making them a great addition to larger spaces. They thrive in bright, indirect light and add a touch of greenery without posing any risk to your cat.
African Violet
African violets are small, flowering plants that are safe for cats. They come in a variety of colours and prefer bright, indirect light. These plants can add a splash of colour to your home without any danger to your pets.
Peperomia
Peperomias are a diverse group of plants that are safe for cats. They come in various shapes and sizes, with some featuring thick, succulent-like leaves. Peperomias are easy to care for and make great indoor plants.
Orchids
Orchids are exotic and beautiful plants that are safe for cats. They require a bit more care than some other houseplants, preferring bright, indirect light and specific watering conditions. However, they can be a stunning addition to your home.
Maranta (Prayer Plant)
The Maranta, or prayer plant, is known for its unique leaf movements and striking patterns. It’s non-toxic to cats and thrives in low to medium light. The prayer plant can add visual interest to your home while being safe for your feline friend.
Polka Dot Plant
The polka dot plant is a colourful, speckled plant that is safe for cats. It prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering. This plant can add a pop of colour to your space without posing any harm to your cat.
Basil
Basil is a common herb that is safe for cats and can be grown indoors. It’s a useful plant to have in your kitchen for cooking, and your cat can safely nibble on the leaves.
What plants you can’t have if you own a cat?
Cats are curious creatures who love to explore their surroundings, including any plants you might have in your home. While many plants are safe for cats, there are some that are toxic and can cause serious health problems if ingested. Here are some common plants you should avoid if you have a cat:
Lilies
Lilies are extremely toxic to cats. Even a small amount of pollen or water from a vase containing lilies can cause severe kidney failure. If you have a cat, it’s best to avoid lilies altogether, including Easter lilies, tiger lilies, day lilies, and Asiatic lilies.
Tulips
Tulips contain toxins called tulipalin A and B, which are harmful to cats. Ingesting tulips can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and depression. The bulbs are particularly toxic, so if you plant tulips in your garden, make sure your cat doesn’t dig them up.
Azaleas and Rhododendrons
Azaleas and rhododendrons contain grayanotoxins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, and even heart failure in cats. These plants are commonly found in gardens and can be tempting for cats to chew on, so it’s best to keep them out of reach.
Sago Palm
The sago palm is a popular houseplant, but it’s highly toxic to cats. All parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the seeds. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, liver failure, and even death. If you have a cat, it’s best to avoid having a sago palm in your home.
Oleander
Oleander is a beautiful flowering shrub, but it’s very toxic to cats. Even a small amount can cause severe health issues, including vomiting, diarrhoea, heart arrhythmias, and death. Oleander is commonly used in landscaping, so be cautious if you have this plant in your garden.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are popular houseplants because they are easy to care for, but they contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in a cat’s mouth and throat. Ingesting philodendrons can lead to drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)
Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is another common houseplant that contains calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested, it can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Pothos is a hardy plant, but it’s best to keep it out of reach of your cat.
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Dieffenbachia, or Dumb Cane, is a popular houseplant that contains toxins causing oral irritation, drooling, and swelling of the mouth and throat. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to difficulty breathing and swallowing.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is known for its healing properties, but it’s toxic to cats. Ingesting aloe vera can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and changes in urine colour. While it’s a beneficial plant for humans, it’s best to keep it out of your cat’s reach.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrins, which are toxic to cats. Ingesting chrysanthemums can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, and lack of coordination. These flowers are often used in bouquets, so be mindful of any floral arrangements you bring into your home.
Daffodils
Daffodils contain lycorine, which is toxic to cats. Ingesting daffodils can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. The bulbs are particularly dangerous, so if you plant daffodils in your garden, ensure your cat doesn’t dig them up.
Peace Lilies
Peace lilies contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting if ingested by cats. While peace lilies are not as toxic as true lilies, they can still cause discomfort and health issues for your feline friend.
English Ivy
English ivy contains toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and drooling in cats. This plant is commonly found in gardens and as a houseplant, so it’s important to keep it out of your cat’s reach.
If you own a cat, it’s crucial to be aware of the plants in your home and garden. Avoiding these toxic plants can help keep your feline friend safe and healthy. If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What should we do if cats eat toxic plants?
If your cat eats a toxic plant, it’s crucial to act quickly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:
1. Identify the Plant
Try to identify the plant your cat has ingested. This will help the veterinarian determine the best course of action. If you’re unsure about the plant, take a picture of it or bring a sample to the vet.
2. Remove Access
Immediately remove your cat from the vicinity of the plant to prevent further ingestion. Also, remove any plant material from your cat’s mouth if possible.
3. Check for Symptoms
Look for signs of poisoning, which may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Lethargy
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Tremors
4. Contact Your Veterinarian
Call your veterinarian right away and inform them about the situation. Provide details about the plant and any symptoms your cat is exhibiting. Follow their advice carefully.
5. Call a Poison Control Hotline
If you can’t reach your vet, contact a pet poison control hotline such as:
- Animal Poisons Centre: 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ).
- Animal Poisons Helpline: 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ)
These hotlines can provide immediate guidance on what to do next.
6. Follow Veterinary Advice
The vet may instruct you to bring your cat in for an examination or to induce vomiting. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a professional, as it can sometimes cause more harm.
7. Emergency Visit
If your vet advises it, take your cat to an emergency veterinary clinic immediately. Bring the plant or a sample of it with you to help the vet with identification and treatment.
8. Provide Information
Be ready to provide the vet with information about:
- The type of plant ingested
- The amount ingested
- The time of ingestion
- Any symptoms your cat is showing
9. Treatment
The treatment will depend on the type of plant and the severity of the poisoning. Possible treatments include:
- Inducing vomiting to remove the plant from the stomach
- Activated charcoal to absorb the toxins
- Intravenous fluids to flush out the toxins and support kidney function
- Medications to manage symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or seizures
10. Monitor Your Cat
After treatment, monitor your cat closely for any signs of ongoing distress or symptoms. Follow all post-treatment care instructions provided by the vet.
11. Prevent Future Incidents
To prevent future incidents:
- Remove any toxic plants from your home and garden.
- Create a safe space for your cat that is free of harmful plants.
- Educate yourself on plants that are toxic to cats.
Conclusion
Adding plants to your home not only enhances its beauty and brings a peaceful vibe, but it’s also crucial to think about your cat’s safety. Opt for cat-friendly plants to keep your living space lush and safe for your furry companion.
Stay alert and knowledgeable about the plants in your home. If your cat ever nibbles on something they shouldn’t, acting swiftly is key to their well-being. Stick to the safe plant guidelines, and you’ll craft a harmonious space where your cat can thrive, and you can bask in the charm of indoor greenery.
