Succulent plants are common choices since they require little maintenance and make excellent houseplants.
Succulents, distinguished by their thick, meaty leaves, are indigenous to arid regions but quickly adapt to a variety of circumstances.
These hardy plants are popular among both seasoned gardeners and aspiring green thumbs since they can flourish both indoors and outdoors.
Succulents can make excellent, low-maintenance houseplants for people, but if you have animal family members, they may not always be the best choice.
The majority of succulents are harmless to our dogs, however some are poisonous or even harmful.
Succulents: Are they harmful to cats?
Are succulents harmful to animals? Hopefully your pets aren’t damaging your plants by chewing on them or digging them up for pleasure. If they do, though, should you be concerned about poisoning or toxicity? Fortunately, the majority of succulents are thought to be non-toxic and safe for pets to consume.
Some can cause mild symptoms when consumed, while others contain skin irritants that might cause minor skin irritations. However, some succulents can be deadly if consumed in high quantities.
The following list of 9 succulents can be toxic to pets:
A big and well-known genus called Aloe contains small dwarf species and giant tree-like species that can reach heights of up to 30 feet (10m). They feature large, fleshy leaves that range in color from green to bluish green. On the stem surfaces of some kinds, there are white flecks.
Aloe vera is harmful to both cats and dogs when consumed, despite the fact that it is well known for its many medical and useful benefits for people. Aloe’s principal toxin, saponin, which is a substance found in it, can seriously harm your pet’s health.
How do I get my cat to quit consuming succulents?
This is the most affordable and practical choice for every pet owner. You can spray your plant with a variety of pet-repellent sprays without causing any harm to it or the pet without buying them from a pet store or nursery.
With vinegar, orange, lemon, cayenne pepper, or chili pepper, you may also prepare a few at yourself. If you prefer, you can combine pepper with water and spray it on your succulents. Citrus fruits can be used in a similar way; simply use diluted lemon juice, orange juice, or white vinegar. If you have essential oils on hand, add 12 to 15 drops of oil to your spray container, give it a thorough shake, and then spray. Pets particularly dislike the scents of peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, and lemongrass. The process might need to be repeated two to three times per month as the odor will eventually go away.
How would it affect my succulent if my cat chewed it?
These are a very common indoor plant that may also be cultivated outdoors. These days, you may readily find these plants anywhere you are, depending on where you are. Ingesting Kalanchoe Tomentosa in big quantities can be lethal to cats and dogs because it is poisonous in all parts.
Keep an eye out for strange behavior in your pet, such as excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and breathing difficulties. Keep the emergency poison control hotline or your neighborhood vet’s helpline’s number handy at all times. If you think you may have been poisoned, call the poison control center or your neighborhood veterinarian right once.
What succulents are toxic?
Succulents like the Kalanchoe and Euphorbia can be poisonous to people. Even non-toxic succulents should be kept out of the reach of kids and pets as a general guideline for all house plants.
EUPHORBIA SUCCULENTS
Plants in the Euphorbiaceae family include euphorbia succulents. They are the fourth-largest genus of flowering plants and are frequently referred to as spurge plants. They are a blooming plant that is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions. Around 1,200 of the family’s more than 2,000 species are succulents. These succulents are renowned for their large, fleshy leaves, blooms, and cactus-like appearance.
SIDE EFFECTS FROM EUPHORBIA SAP
These plants release a milky sap that both people and animals may find harmful. Usually, a succulent’s leaves will have sap on them. It can result in a rash if it comes into contact with any exposed skin. Euphorbia sap can irritate the eyes and cause pain and redness. In order to safeguard your hands and eyes when handling Euphorbia succulents, wear gloves.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET EUPHORBIA SAP ON YOUR SKIN OR EYES
If you touch or come in contact with Euphorbia sap, wash the affected area well with lots of lukewarm water right away. Because the sap is sticky, more water and soap could be necessary. Start cleaning your eye(s) with warm water if Euphorbia sap gets in them. In the event of any plant exposure, it is crucial to contact the Poison Center for further instructions.
KALANCHOE SUCCULENTS
Usually found in adorable pots, kalanchoe succulents can be found in flower stores or garden centers. A little cluster of flowers that typically has one huge bloom atop the stalk is produced by them. Large kalanchoe succulent leaves are typically a vivid dark green. There are up to 125 different species of this kind of plant.
SIDE EFFECTS FROM INGESTING KALANCHOE SUCCULENTS
When consumed, the majority of kalanchoe plant kinds only possibly produce nausea and vomiting. Some Kalanchoe species have a naturally occurring toxin that can harm the heart. The majority of the time, this occurs in grazing cattle and in some animal experiments, although it is unlikely to harm humans.
WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE EATS A PIECE OF KALANCHOE SUCCULENT
If you or someone else has consumed a piece of kalanchoe succulent, rinse your mouth out with water and a soft towel. Call the Poison Center to discuss potential symptoms with a poison information professional. Call your veterinarian straight away or go to an animal poison center for help if your pet has consumed a piece of kalanchoe plant.
What plants are the most hazardous to cats?
We looked into some of the most hazardous plants that your cat might come into contact with from the ASPCA’s list.
- Lilies.
- palm sago.
- Rhododendrons and Azaleas.
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
- Cannabis.
- Scorpion Plant.
- black violet
- Plant Air (Tillandsia)
What causes cats to eat plants and then vomit?
Even plants that are safe for cats to eat may cause your cat to subsequently vomit after she has eaten them. As long as you are certain that a non-toxic plant was consumed, there is no reason to be concerned. Because cats’ digestive systems can only process a portion of the plant, they must vomit to get the remainder out of their bodies. Call your veterinarian right away if you have any doubts about what your cat ate or the cause of her vomiting; it’s always preferable to err on the side of caution.
The short answer to the question of whether cats and plants can live in harmony in your house is yes. To ensure that your home is packed with lovely plants for you and healthy ones for your cat, just do some thorough research and planning.
Why do cats consume indoor plants?
Despite being predominantly carnivores, cats will occasionally nibble on plants in the wild, either for the added nutrients or fiber they provide, or possibly just because they enjoy the flavor. We’re not entirely certain. But they seem to prefer fresh, delicate vegetation.
Cats will occasionally consume houseplants in the home either out of boredom or because they are drawn to the leaves fluttering in the air currents.
Why is my cactus being eaten by my cat?
Here are a few explanations for why your cat might be biting or kicking your plants if you’re wondering why they might be doing it.
The explanations could aid in your better understanding of your pet and, in some situations, aid in the discovery of flaws in your pet.
Curiosity killed the cat
Cats are inherently inquisitive. You may have heard the saying “curiosity killed the cat,” which means that a cat will do everything to satiate its curiosity.
The cactus plant may be uncommon in many homes, despite the fact that your cat may have become accustomed to other house plants in your house.
When you water the plant, the spikes and always growing stems and branches could all be piqueing your cat’s interest. Your cat might be simply observing this plant and occasionally punching or biting it to see how it responds.
The need for roughage
Even though cats are real carnivores, some fiber doesn’t hurt because it helps with indigestion. As much as your cat may try to bite your cactus, they could not care for the flavor and end up spitting it out. There is no danger if they accidentally consume some of it because it might add a little fiber to their diet.
However, you must be extremely cautious about how much fiber your cat takes because too much is unhealthy for cats.
Since cats are carnivores, they need proteins to survive, and too much fiber may deplete the body’s supply of amino acids. If your cat consistently gets diarrhea, it may have ingested too much cactus.
Thirst Quencher
The succulent plant has a large capacity for water storage. Water intake and conservation have been specialized in the plant’s leaves, roots, and even stems.
According to research, during hot weather, this plant conserves more water than it loses through photosynthesis or evaporation. These plants frequently have a turgid, succulent appearance, which may be why your cat is drawn to them.
Make sure your cat has access to enough water at all times. The cat will be deterred from utilizing your cactus to quench its thirst as a result of the habit.
Lack of nutrients
When their food is low in some critical elements, such as iron or calcium, cats may occasionally turn to eating soil. Your cat can wind up biting your plants in its attempt to get at the dirt, making them unattractive.
It is best to take your cat to the nearest veterinarian if you see that it is always attempting to reach for the dirt in your cactus. The vet will perform a comprehensive examination of your cat and provide you advice regarding any potential mineral shortages. Additionally, the doctor will give you suggestions for the best mineral sources and might even prescribe some supplements for you to take at home.
Craving for different textures
The texture of your cactus may appeal to the cat because it primarily consumes meat. Your cat might want to bite the plant to feel what it’s like.
Itchiness
Cats enjoy rubbing their fur on anything they come across. Your cat might try rubbing its hair against the plant to get rid of any itchiness.
Additionally, gum disease or tooth decay could be developing as a result of an infection in your cat’s mouth. Bring your cat in for an examination, and the vet will give you tips on how to best care for your pet’s teeth.
How should one react if a cat eats a plant?
You are aware as a cat owner that your cat enjoys chewing on plants. You may find this odd given that you are aware that cats are primarily carnivores. Although the exact reason cats do this is unknown, it’s possible that they require specific minerals or fiber from plants. However, it is known that some plants will make your cat ill. The list of plants that are poisonous to cats can be found in homes and gardens.
- Amaryllis
- Fall crocus
- Azalea
- Cane toad
- Chrysanthemum
- Cyclamen
- Narcissus, Tulip, and Daffodil Bulbs
- British Ivy
- Kalanchoe
- Lilies
- Marijuana
- Oleander
- Calm Lily (not a true lily)
- Pothos
- Rhododendron
- Palm Sago
- Latin Thyme
- Yew
How Will I Know if my Cat has Eaten a Toxic Plant?
Your cat will become unwell from plant toxins that act as irritants or inflammatory agents, particularly in the digestive system. The most typical signs and symptoms include itching, swelling, and/or redness of the mouth or skin. The following symptoms of toxicity may, however, be caused by some plant poisons that target a particular body organ.
- breathing problems (airways are affected).
- Drooling or trouble swallowing because of toxins in the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
- vomiting (involving the stomach and/or intestines).
- diarrhea (colon and/or intestines are impacted).
- drinking and urinating too much (kidneys are compromised).
- irregular, rapid, or sluggish heartbeat (the heart has a problem).
What Should I do if My Cat has Eaten a Poisonous Plant?
Here are some things you may do if you see your cat nibbling on a plant but are unsure of its safety.
- Eliminate all plant matter from your cat’s skin and fur.
- If necessary, wash your cat with warm water with a little dish soap that won’t irritate its skin.
- Call your veterinarian right away if you know the herb is harmful.
- The plant that your cat ate should be identified. Your veterinarian will need this information to choose the best course of action.
- Bring a clipping to show the veterinarian if you are unsure of the name of the plant.
- Gather a sample of your cat’s vomit to provide the vet if it has.
- Dial 855-764-7661 to reach the Pet Poison Helpline in an actual emergency.
What is the Treatment for Cat Poisoning?
To remove any toxins still present in the intestines, your veterinarian may administer activated charcoal to your cat. Additionally, a stomach protector medication may be used. If the toxic effect on the gastrointestinal tract is significant, fluids and/or anti-inflammatory medicine may also be given. Major damage may require extended aftercare in the form of medication and/or a particular diet.
Sadly, no matter how quickly you get your cat to the clinic, some plants are usually fatal to cats. Lilies, particularly Asian, day, Easter, Japanese, and tiger lilies, are an example of this. The fact that cats can die from exposure to only one of these lily species’ pollen is quite concerning.
Healthy Plant Alternatives
Consider growing some wheatgrass to satiate your cat’s desire for plants without getting your cat ill. You can either buy a product like PetGrass or grow it yourself using wheatberries, which are readily available in most health food stores. Catnip is an additional choice, but two out of every three cats absolutely love it. Put your cat’s personal green space far from other plants and close to food and water. You don’t want to send your cat contradictory messages about eating plants.
Cat Emergency
Don’t hesitate to get your cat medical attention right away if you think it may have eaten a poisonous plant. The CVETS pet emergency regional center in Columbia, South Carolina, is well-equipped to handle plant toxins that are sickening your cat. The life of your poisoned cat may depend on you bringing it to us.