Do you have a furry feline friend? Keeping your cat safe from toxic plants is crucial. But do you know which plants you should avoid when you have a cat in your home?
Common Poisonous Plants for Cats Pet Parents Should Know
Indoor cats and houseplants can be a tricky combination, especially when there are so many toxic plants easily available in stores.
In this article, we will discuss six of the most common poisonous plants for cats that you should be aware of. By keeping these plants in mind, you can ensure that you choose the safest options for your beloved pet. Remember, there are other potentially harmful houseplants out there, so always do your research before bringing a new plant into your home.
Lilies
Lilies are among the most dangerous plants for cats. Varieties such as Asiatic lilies, Daylilies, and Peace lilies are commonly found in gift bouquets and pots, making them easily accessible to our curious feline friends. These plants are often exchanged as gifts, especially during holidays like Easter.
Ingesting lilies, even a small amount of pollen, can cause mild to severe symptoms. Cats may experience nausea, vomiting, mouth and throat irritation, excessive drooling, and in severe cases, kidney failure, and even death. It is best to keep lilies out of your home if you have cats.
Aloe
Aloe plants, popular for their gel used to treat burns and rashes, can be hazardous for cats. Although cats are not likely to die from ingesting aloe, it can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially dangerous dehydration if left untreated.
Jade Plant
Jade plants, with their beautiful dark green leaves, are a common choice for small pots in homes and offices. While they make striking statements in home decor, they are unfortunately toxic to cats. Ingesting jade plants may cause lethargy, weakness, vomiting, and in more serious cases, loss of coordination or confusion. Most cats will recover after ingesting this plant, but it can make them quite sick.
Monstera
With its large paddle-shaped leaves and unique natural holes, the Monstera plant has gained popularity as a houseplant. If a cat chews on a Monstera plant, it can lead to mouth and gum swelling, other mouth irritations, extreme drooling, and vomiting. Ingesting this plant can cause severe dehydration in cats, but they usually won’t die from it.
Pothos
Pothos plants, similar to Monstera, are commonly found in households due to their easy care and visual appeal. Their long stems, often draping over containers, are tempting for cats to chew on. Ingesting pothos can cause mouth irritation, burning, swelling, excessive drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. While most cats will survive ingesting some pothos, they may become very ill and require veterinary care.
English Ivy
English Ivy may appear harmless, but it is actually quite dangerous for cats. Its long vines with dark green leaves and pale green trim make it an attractive houseplant, but also enticing for cats to chew on. If a cat eats English Ivy, they may experience vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, and diarrhea, requiring immediate veterinary care.
Bring Your Pet to VEG if They’ve Ingested Any Poisonous Plants for Cats
Before bringing any plants into your home, ensure they are safe for your cat by doing thorough research. With the help of this list, you can make informed decisions and select plants that are harmless to your furry companion. If you already have a toxic houseplant, consider rehoming it or moving it to a safe location that your cat cannot access.
If you know that your pet has consumed any of the mentioned poisonous plants for cats, contact our team at VEG immediately. Acting swiftly is crucial to ensure your pet receives the necessary treatment. With many of our locations available 24/7, including weekends and holidays, our emergency vets are always ready to provide the best possible care for your beloved cat.