So many of us are besieged by plants, both wild and potted ones adorning our living spaces. Whether planted in indoors, on lawns, or in gardens, they do not wrong us.
Even so, a small number of these species have the potential to adversely affect our cats (some other pets as well) and us. And Alocasia is one of such beautiful toxic plants.
According to ASPCA Alocasia is a toxic plant containing Oxalate crystals which can cause mouth distress, dizziness, vomiting, and indigestion.
Most cats are fussy eaters who are picky about what they feed. As a result, poisoning in cats is uncommon.
Youthful, curious cats and kittens are most likely to consume harmful plants, particularly those found in homes.
Cats also enjoy nibbling on specific grass when presented with the opportunity. In any case, if you possess cats (or dogs and babies!) and Alocasia, they might be at risk.
Well without further ado, here’s how you can deal with Alocasia poisoning if your pets ever consume them.
Table of Contents
- Is Alocasia Toxic to Cats?
- Diagnosis of Alocasia Poisoning
- 1. Behavioral or Physical Diagnosis
- 2. Medical Diagnosis
- First Aid and Treatment from Alocasia Poisoning
- 1. First-Aid Methods
- 2. Treatment Stages
- Recovery Stages
- Why is my Cat Eating Alocasia- with Preventive Measures
- 1. Why is my Cat Eating Alocasia?
- 2. How can I Prevent my Cat from Eating Alocasia?
- Conclusion
Is Alocasia Toxic to Cats?
Alocasia is found in a sub/tropical Asia, the tropical western Pacific, and eastern Australia. Like other sub-species in the Araceae family, it too constitutes insoluble oxalate crystals.
Munching or chewing on this plant will cause tissue penetration and discomfort in the mouth and GI tract. Inflammation of the upper airway infrequently emerges, making breathing difficult.
According to the official site of North Carolina State University, the toxic Alocasia has heart-shaped, long, and red stalks.
These Alocasia veins are very distinguishable and white or pale yellow with rare tiny clusters of Alocasia’s toxic blooms.
Although the foliage of some species may comprise little or no toxin, all sections of these plants should be considered toxic.
If ingested, Alocasia is highly poisonous to dogs, cats, horses, and humans and can prove fatal. Alocasia can lead to skin irritation if it comes into contact with bare skin.
The calcium oxalate crystals found in the plant have jagged edges that irritate everything they come into contact with.
Since Alocasia is such a popular ornamental plant, it may be entailed with accidental or intentional toxicity on a regular basis.
Diagnosis of Alocasia Poisoning
The primary way of diagnosing if your pet has Alocasia poisoning is to make sure they have ingested the plant.
Thus, go and check the plant and calculate how much of the plant your pet has consumed. After that, look for the diagnostic symptoms and behavioral changes.
If you have not been able to identify the volume of Alocasia nibbled by your kitties, make sure you go forth with the at-home behavioral diagnosis before heading to the pet hospital for medical diagnosis.
A detailed behavioral diagnosis will make the clinical diagnosis more effortless and more efficient.
1. Behavioral or Physical Diagnosis
Physical manifestations will automatically appear within two hours of ingestion in most instances.
Symptoms of Alocasia Poisoning in Cats
The symptoms include:
- Evident pain and irritation are evidenced by violent shaking of the head, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, barfing, and vomiting.
- In addition, the pet may whine, meow, or yelp in an abnormally hoarse or weak tone.
- Distress, diarrhea, inappetence, and inflammation of the mouth, throat, and tongue.
- The vomiting and diarrhea can dehydrate your pet heavily, cause electrolyte imbalances, and send the animal into shock.
- Elevated drooling, asphyxiation, and throat swelling.
- Swelling can be so intense in some cases that it restricts oxygen intake, culminating in dyspnea (shortness of breath, gasping for air).
- Inability or trouble swallowing (dysphagia) may occur after consuming the plant.
- Larger doses can cause severe gastrointestinal problems.
- When large quantities are absorbed into the body, the ailments become much more drastic.
- They can include any or all of the above and convulsions, renal failure, coma, and fatality.
Large ingestions are unusual because the plant is both bitter in taste and an instantaneous allergen to the mouth.
If in case they manage hefty ingestion, the pet’s clinical symptoms will be significantly worse, resulting in cardiac abnormalities, dilated pupils, coma, and fatality.
Symptoms of Alocasia Poisoning in Humans
- Dermal contact with this species can result in various symptoms, including redness, stinging, sores, and excruciating blisters.
- Ingesting these plants can cause irritation and inflammation to the lips, mouth, throat, and tongue.
- In severe cases, they can cause respiratory issues by causing inflammation in the oropharynx.
- These oxalate crystals can become lodged in the kidneys, causing internal damage, dizziness, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Consumption of these plants, particularly in large quantities, is expected to have severe consequences for the heart, liver, kidneys, and brain.
2. Medical Diagnosis
Carry the plant with you to the medical professional if you see your cat or dog consume the plant.
This will aid in the diagnosis, which is mainly based on your details, such as what part of the plant your pet consumed, how much they swallowed, and when it happened.
Make sure to notify the veterinarian of any other symptoms you have discovered.
The vet will check abdominal palpation, core temperature, height, weight, reflexes, pulse rate, respiratory rate, and blood oxygenation.
Ascertain that the veterinarian is also aware of your cat’s medical records, including immunizations, previous diseases, and unusual behavior or appetite.
The medical practitioner will perform a complete blood count (CBC), blood chemical profile, blood gases, and a glucose test.
A urinalysis can also help diagnose Alocasia poisoning because the plant includes asparagine, which raises protein levels.
First Aid and Treatment from Alocasia Poisoning
The intervention will be determined by how much your pet consumed and how long ago it occurred. In most instances, the good news is that we can manage treatment at home.
1. First-Aid Methods
The first and foremost is to have a first aid kit for your furry pal in case of emergencies.
Here are a few first aid kits for poisoning in cats
- All-Purpose Essentials Soft-Sided First Aid Kit
- Pet First Aid Kit for Dogs & Cats
- RC Pet Products Pet First Aid Kit
Ways to Provide First-Aid
- Consider wearing protective gloves and relocating your cat to a well-ventilated area if you suspect they have ingested Alocasia.
- Remove the remaining plant parts from the cat’s oral cavity. Make sure you wash the mouth several times and rinse with plain water.
- You can then provide the animal yogurt, milk, cheese, or any other calcium-containing food to alleviate pain by possibly precipitating some of the calcium oxalate crystals.
- The vast majority of the time, the pet will heal completely within 12-24 hours of consumption.
- If the animal is undergoing more severe gastrointestinal discomfort, persistent vomiting, and diarrhea, it should be closely monitored for indications of dehydration and given fluid therapy if necessary.
- To prevent excessive dehydration, make your cat drinks plenty of water.
Disclaimer! Before experimenting with your cat’s helath make sure to consult with a vet or professionals
These are the few common steps to help your pets recover from Alocasia poisoning. However, you need to make sure that the pet is under monitoring for the following few days.
If your cats consume the plant excessively, it can be fatal to your cats. But the lethality also depends on how timely your cat received the treatment.
Hence, it is better to take them to a vet as soon as you find out that they have consumed the plant.
In case the symptoms do not get better after 2-3 hours of first aid care, take them to the hospital immediately. Use the following Helplines:
- Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 888-426-4435
2. Treatment Stages
Once you take your sick cat to the hospital, the medical professional will take the following treatments to ensure your furry friends recover efficiently.
| Medicines | Dosage | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Antihistamine | Diphenhydramine: 2-4mg/kg every 8 hours if needed | To minimize swelling, distress, and potential airway blockages caused by the body's inflammatory reaction |
| Antiemetics | 100-200ml of fluids at one time. | To stabilize vomiting |
| Anti-diarrheal agents | Metronidazole:7.5 - 10 mg/ kg Tylosin:15 mg/ kg ) | To reduce intestinal inflammation and stop diarrhea |
| Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) | Robenacoxib:1 mg/ kg per day Meloxicam:0.2 mg/ kg per day | To reduce inflammation and bring down high temperature |
| Muscle Relaxants | Methocarbamol:7-20 mg/ pound 5mg/ cat (Baclofen- causes toxicity on higher dose) | Muscle relaxation and control muscle spasm |
| Activated Charcoal | 1-5 gm/ kg | To lessen effects of poisoning |
| Anticonvulsants | Phenobarbital:2-3 mg per pound twice a day | Relieves nerve pain |
| Protectants | Sucralfate:1/4 to 1/2 gm every 6 to 8 hours | To protect internal organs from acids and toxins. |
If the windpipe is blocked due to swelling, the pet should be kept in a veterinary office under inspection until the swelling subsides and the animal is breathing properly.
Do not give your cat and dogs any prescription drugs without first discussing them with your veterinarian. This article is solely for informational purposes.
Recovery Stages
Arrange a quiet and peaceful place for your pet to rest once they return home. To avoid overtraining syndrome, it is best to keep your pets in a cage overnight.
Your veterinarian may prescribe a simple diet for your pet until their digestive system returns to normal, so make sure to follow those instructions and provide plenty of water.
Alocasia poisoning can cause illness for up to two weeks, but the most severe complications usually go away within the first 24 hours.
The amount of plant consumed and whether or not kidney damage occurred determine the overall recovery rate.
Although there have been few reports of cats dying due to Alocasia, it does not commonly occur.
Why is my Cat Eating Alocasia- with Preventive Measures
1. Why is my Cat Eating Alocasia?
As a famous proverb says, Prevention is better than cure! Position your Alocasia high up (best if kept in handing baskets) so that your cats do not reach the plant.
But before that, understand why your kitty is consuming Alocasia in the first place.
- All cats, particularly housecats, get monotonous from time to time if they don’t get enough excitation.
- Cats will devour plants to induce vomiting in order to relieve stomach upset.
- Hairballs accumulate overtime in their stomach, and consuming plants encourages them to projectile vomit hairballs.
- When cats are unwell, they will eat plants to vomit and rid themselves of parasites.
- Excessive stress can cause your kitty to behave differently and be obnoxious.
- Cats enjoy the crunchiness of some plants and will seek out the dry crunchy leaves.
- Your cat craves your attention and will demonstrate this by behaving in ways that will entice you to give it to him.
2. How can I Prevent my Cat from Eating Alocasia?
Cats and innocence don’t go hand in hand.
These mischievous and curious fur balls are difficult to confine. Hence, it is not much of a surprise to see them occasionally munch on houseplants.
Numerous people who enjoy having Alocasia planted around their home go to great lengths to ensure that it is not reachable by a cat.
Some people choose to eliminate the plant entirely to be on the safe side. However, I suggest you to avoid this and maintain safety measures.
Several techniques for retaining your cats from ingesting Alocasia are:
- Try placing your Alocasia at a height but not on shelves or furniture since these gymnasts might easily reach there.
- Placing plants in a locked room or inside a greenhouse is also a full-prove method for maintaining their distances.
- Use repellent sprays (Inscape Data Cat Spray Deterrent), or you can also DIY the spray yourself at home.
- Cats hate citrus/peppermint smell. Likewise, rosemary and lavender can as well distance your cat from Alocasia.
- Make sure you are letting your cat play with the artificial and safe plants to keep them occupied.
- Fencing Alocasia and sprinkling coffee grounds is another method. But, not a highly reliable one.
Doesn’t Alocasia interest you? Well if it does then here is 15+ Beautiful Alocasia Varieties For Your Garden.
Conclusion
Cats enjoy munching on plants here and there.
Many places are out of bounds for your cats. Discovering those locations is critical for protecting both your cats and the beautiful plant.
You don’t need to abandon any of your companions. Just work on the preventive measures and follow the above-mentioned approach in the worst case.
We are sure you can keep them both happy and healthy.
Pat yourself for the success!!
There are many types of houseplants that you might want to bring into your home. Before that find out if they are toxic or not with Plants Craze!
FAQs
Are alocasia poisonous for cats? ›
Leafy and exotic looking, it's no wonder that the alocasia is one of America's most popular houseplants. Unfortunately, it's a no-go if you have a cat because, like lilies, it contains insoluble calcium oxalates that cause kidney failure, notes the ASPCA.
Is alocasia plant pet safe? ›Alocasia plants make stunning houseplants, but they can be harmful if the plant material is chewed on or swallowed. These plants contain oxalate crystals that can cause mouth pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. They should be kept away from children and pets.
How poisonous is alocasia? ›HIGHLY TOXIC, MAY BE FATAL IF EATEN! SKIN IRRITATION SEVERE! All parts are poisonous and contain calcium oxalate crystals. This substance is toxic and makes the mouth, tongue and throat feel as if small needles are digging in to them.
How long does plant toxicity last in cats? ›Hello the side effects can last 24 to 48 hours. If your cat is not eating it would be best for your vet to see your cat. Was this experience helpful?
What is the most toxic plant to cats? ›Lily. For cats, this is floral enemy #1. Lilies, including daylilies, tiger lilies, Easter lilies, and more—are extremely toxic plants for cats and can cause acute kidney failure. All parts of the plant are dangerous: petals, leaves, stem, and pollen.
What are the most toxic houseplants for cats? ›- Lilies. Beautiful though they may be, lilies are one of the most toxic house plants for cats. ...
- Philodendron. ...
- Oleander. ...
- Aloe. ...
- Chrysanthemum. ...
- Hyacinth. ...
- Jade plant. ...
- Sago palm.
If elephant ear is ingested by your pet, it will cause increased salivation, difficulty swallowing, oral irritation, and vomiting. Fiddle Leaf—Fiddle Leaf is easy to grow, which makes it ideal for use in the home. It is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
What kind of plant is Alocasia? ›Alocasia is a genus of rhizomatous or tuberous, broad-leaved, perennial, flowering plants from the family Araceae. There are about 90 accepted species native to tropical and subtropical Asia and eastern Australia.
Is alocasia black velvet poisonous to cats? ›Alocasias are another plant that have grown quite popular throughout 2020 and 2021 with their heart- and arrow-shaped leaves. Some of the more popular varieties include alocasia silver dragon, dragon scale alocasia, and alocasia black velvet. Unfortunately, they're also very poisonous (to both humans and pets).
Are elephant ear plants safe for cats? ›Elephant's ear (Alocasia spp.) is toxic to cats. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals which are needle-like crystals produced by the plant to protect it against herbivory.
Are alocasia zebrina plants toxic to cats? ›
1 – The Amazonica Polly Plant (Alocasia)
This plant is part of the Alocasia family which is vast, and most, if not all of them are poisonous to cats and dogs. The most commonly sold variety is sold under its most popular name – the Polly plant.
According to ASPCA Alocasia is a toxic plant containing Oxalate crystals which can cause mouth distress, dizziness, vomiting, and indigestion. Most cats are fussy eaters who are picky about what they feed. As a result, poisoning in cats is uncommon.
Is Spider plant toxic to cats? ›Spider plants are listed as non-toxic, so you don't need to get too worried if you find Fluffy gnawing on them.
What's the difference between alocasia and Colocasia? ›Colocasia tubers are large and swollen and encircled by striped bands. The tubers of Colocasia are also known as “taro” and are used for food in Hawaii. Alocasia tubers are smaller, thin and plain without the prominent stripes or eyes.
How long does it take for a cat to show signs of poisoning? ›There are symptoms to look for if you suspect that your cat has been exposed to a toxin. A change in cat behavior is often the fist sign that something is wrong. Once a cat ingests or comes in contact with a toxin, symptoms may not show up right away. Some toxins may take 3 to 4 days to show any effects.
How do I protect my cat from poisonous plants? ›Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the leaves of houseplants and your cat will back away pretty quickly. Cats also hate the smell of citrus. Put orange and lemon peels in your pots along with the plants to help deter them. Another option is spraying the leaves directly with diluted lemon juice or orange oil.
What plants are good for cats? ›Felines enjoy attractive edible flowers such as zinnias, marigolds and Johnny-jump-ups, as well as catnip, cat thyme, oat grass, rosemary and bean sprouts. Although catnip has a reputation as a cat favorite, you might want to try some on your cat before you plant it, because not all cats like it.
Why do cats eat houseplants? ›In a some cases, cats eat plants (or soil!) because their diet is lacking some essential nutrient. The behavior can also be a symptom of gastrointestinal issues, so it's best to have your cat evaluated thoroughly just to be sure.
Is aloe plant toxic to cats? ›Aloe juice and pulp can be used to treat a variety of conditions in people, but it is highly toxic to cats. Keep aloe plants away from cats, like on your refrigerator or in your bedroom, and spray the plants with vinegar to make them less tasty to curious felines who find them.
What plants cause kidney failure in cats? ›Lilies are beautiful, fragrant flowers that are often found in gardens and floral arrangements, especially around the holidays. Unfortunately, exposure to lily plants can cause kidney failure in cats and remains one of our most common feline emergencies.
Can I have a monstera and a cat? ›
Philodendron (and Monstera)
This genus of plants is mildly toxic to humans, and toxic to both dogs and cats. Symptoms of exposure include: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Catnip is a plant
Specifically, that plant is Nepeta cataria, a shrub in the mint family. It's native to Europe and Asia but now grows wildly across the Americas as well, along roads and highways. The plant produces a chemical called nepetalactone in microscopic bulbs that coat its leaves, stems, and seedpods.
Many succulents in the euphorbia genus, such as the pencil cactus and crown of thorns, are poisonous to both cats and dogs. Symptoms of poisoning from ingesting this succulent range from gastrointestinal upset to skin and eye irritation.
Is bamboo toxic to cats? ›For true Bambusoideae species of bamboo, it is non toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Fun fact: Foliage of bamboo can contain up to 22% protein, so it's even good for them! Protein content varies from species to species and even varies depending on the age of the leaves.
Is Alocasia good for indoor plant? ›Fortunately for indoor gardeners, Alocasias can grow well in pots, provided they get enough humidity and light. These plants are well known for their beautiful foliage and can brighten up any indoor space. This makes them a real treat to have in your home if you can care for them properly.
What is another name for Alocasia? ›Elephant ears is the common name for a group of tropical perennial plants grown for their large, heart-shaped leaves.
What is the most beautiful Alocasia? ›Alocasia baginda 'Dragon Scale'
As one of the most stunning Jewel Alocasia varieties, 'Dragon Scale' boasts spectacular, silvery green leaves with deep green primary and secondary veins that resemble large scales (and are also slightly hardened like scales).
Snake plants, also called mother-in-law's tongue, are toxic to cats. All parts of the plant contain saponins, which are organic chemicals that protect plants from bugs, bacteria and fungi.
Can I have a snake plant with a cat? ›Snake plants are popular houseplants because they're hardy plants with easy care needs. However, snake plants are toxic to cats, and dogs, for that matter. The type of toxin they contain is saponin. Saponin is a defensive mechanism that many plants use to protect themselves against insects, microbes, and fungi.
Is alocasia black velvet an indoor plant? ›As a commonly grown indoor plant, Alocasia reginula 'Black Velvet' will comfortably grow in most household conditions. That being said, for a tropical species that doesn't like an overly moist soil, it really does appreciate a higher humidity and temperature.
Is Chinese lucky bamboo toxic to cats? ›
According to the ASPCA Dracaena sanderiana (lucky bamboo or ribbon plant) can be harmful to cats. If ingested, it causes dilated pupils, abdominal pain, increased heart-rate and drooling. Cats who ingest lucky bamboo will show signs of depression, no appetite, drooling, vomiting, incoordination and weakness.
Is a philodendron safe for cats? ›The philodendron family, which includes Swiss cheese plant, heartleaf and fiddle-leaf philodendron, have a toxicity level of mild to moderate for cats and dogs. Oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.
Is peace lily toxic to cats? ›17 Nov Peace Lilies And Your Cat
Indeed, Liles in the Lilium and Hemerocallis genus are extremely toxic to cats. There have been case reports of cats grooming their coat after simply brushing past Lilium or Hemerocallis flowers and subsequently developing life-threatening poisoning with kidney failure.
Place the cutting in a pot with fresh potting soil. Pour a little water around the cutting, so that the soil is slightly moist. You can also place the Alocasia cuttings in water. Although not every Alocasia specie is suitable for water propagation.
What part of the elephant ear plant is poisonous? ›A mature Elephant Ears plant is a head-turner thanks to its leafy good looks. Exercise caution because the stems and leaves of this rare plant are poisonous and can also cause skin irritation. While rarely fatal, it is still best to admire the foliage from a distance.
How long do alocasia leaves last? ›An average of 1-2 years in an apartment. Under optimal conditions, in the greenhouse – up to 15 years. It is a heat-loving plant.
Is alocasia amazonica poisonous? ›Poison. The alocasia is highly poisonous to dogs, cats, horses and humans and can cause death if consumed. If it touches the skin, the alocasia can cause skin irritation. Every part of this plant is poisonous.
Are palm plants poisonous to cats? ›Palm Trees Are Not Poisonous to Cats
Under normal circumstances, palm trees and palm leaves are not poisonous to cats. This is not common to all palms, however. There are some – such as the sago palm tree – that are very poisonous to cats and dogs.
#3 Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
These plants are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs and like a lot of indirect light.
Cats mainly like spider plants because they are mildly hallucinogenic. Yes, it's true. Similar in nature to the effects of catnip, spider plants produce chemicals that induce your cat's obsessive behavior and fascination.
Is snake plant toxic? ›
Snake Plant
They've even been used as herbal remedies in some parts of the world. But the plants are also poisonous if ingested. Large doses can cause nausea and vomiting, and the poison found in the plant has a numbing effect that can cause the tongue and throat to swell.
Alocasias and colocasias, better known as elephant ears, are impressive tropical plants that are prized for their dramatic foliage. Their immense leaves can measure up to 2 feet across, with foliage colors ranging from lime green to almost black.
How often do you water Alocasia? ›Water. Alocasia Polly enjoy weekly watering sessions and frequent misting, keeping their soil moist but not wet. In winter, we recommend allowing the top 2' of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot.
How many types of Alocasia are there? ›Alocasia
Will milk help a poisoned cat? ›No. Milk is unlikely to be helpful in the vast majority of poisoning situations and can sometimes make things worse. Most pets are lactose intolerant and giving milk can cause or worsen stomach upset symptoms.
Can cats recover from toxicity? ›Recovery from poisoning in cats depends on timing. The sooner your cat has medical attention, the sooner treatment can begin and the less time the poison has to make its way through your cat's system. For many cats, those who receive early treatment will return to their normal selves within a short time.
What does toxicity look like in cats? ›Uncharacteristic sluggishness, unsteady gait, drooling, heavy breathing, diarrhea, seizures, and sudden bouts of vomiting are among the common clinical signs of feline poisoning (toxicosis). A cat owner who observes any of these signs will do an animal a huge favor by seeking emergency veterinary care.
Which plants are most toxic to cats? ›- Yew. ...
- Amaryllis. ...
- Autumn Crocus. ...
- Chrysanthemum. ...
- English Ivy. ...
- Peace Lily (aka Mauna Loa Peace Lily) ...
- Pothos. ...
- Schefflera.
Spray Plants with Diluted Lemon Juice
While lemon juice is safe for pets to ingest, they don't like the smell of citrus-which makes lemon juice a natural deterrent. (It's also perfectly safe for plants.)
If your cats' organs have been affected by ingesting a toxic plant, symptoms of poisoning may include: breathing difficulties, drooling, difficulties swallowing, excessive drinking, frequent urination, overall weakness, or irregular heartbeat. Gastrointestinal symptoms of poisoning may include: vomiting and diarrhea.
Why do cats eat plants and then throw up? ›
Cats' systems are unable to digest all of the plant; therefore, they throw up to rid their bodies of the undigested part.
What plants give cats diarrhea? ›Ficus and Snake (Mother-in-laws tongue) plants – These can result in vomiting and diarrhea, while Dracaena (corn plant) may cause vomiting, drooling, and staggering. Jade carries the same symptoms in addition to depression. Aloe plants – Can result in vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, and staggering.
How do I know if my cat ate something bad? ›- vomiting.
- diarrhea.
- abdominal tenderness or pain.
- decreased appetite or anorexia.
- straining to defecate or producing small amounts of feces.
- lethargy.
If you want some cat-friendly air fresheners, there are certain smells that cats love. “Cats love the smell of catnip, olives, non-citrus fruit for the most part and plants like honeysuckle,” Dr. Evans said. A lot of cats like the scent of valerian root, “which induces a similar euphoria to catnip,” Hudson said.
What indoor plants can cats eat? ›- Cat Grass. While not as common as it is in dogs, many cats enjoy chewing on grass. ...
- Catnip. Yes, this is the same funny-smelling stuff found in many cat toys. ...
- African Violets.
- Bamboo Palm (also known as Parlor Palm)
- Areca Palm.
- Air Plants.
- Boston Fern.
- Phalaenopsis Orchids.
Cats dislike the smell of rue, lavender and pennyroyal, Coleus canina and lemon thyme. Plant a few of these throughout the garden. (Interplanting can attract pollinators and other beneficial insects too.) Cats steer clear of strong citrus scents.
What can I spray on my plants to keep cats away? ›Spray plant leaves with a homemade blend of water, a few drops of Tabasco sauce, and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
What smell does a cat hate? ›As a general rule, cats are sensitive when it comes to smells, but there are a few scents they hate that might just surprise you. They can't stand citrus and as much as you might love the smell of fresh herbs, cats hate rosemary and thyme. Banana and mustard are a big no-no too, as well as lavender and eucalyptus.
How do you make my cat stop eating my plants? ›If you have a plant in your home that isn't toxic but your cat never seems to leave it alone, a good way to keep him or her away is by sprinkling chili powder on the leaves. Lightly dust the plant with the spice and you'll soon notice that your cat will avoid it altogether.
Is Spider plant toxic to cats? ›Spider plants are listed as non-toxic, so you don't need to get too worried if you find Fluffy gnawing on them.
Is Mint safe for cats? ›
All parts of mint, particularly leaves, flowers, and stems, are unsafe for your feline friends. These plants are loaded with essential oils, which are highly toxic to not just cats, but also horses and dogs. Therefore, make sure your cat doesn't nibble on mint leaves or any other part of the plant.
What plants can cause liver damage in cats? ›Avoid dieffenbachia, devil's ivy (Epipremnum aureum), philodendrons, peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) and calla lilies (Zantedeschia). Sago palm: This striking, cold-hardy plant features long feathery leaves that contain a toxin called cycasin, which causes liver damage.
Can a cat's liver regenerate? ›The liver also regenerates well, which means that recovery is often possible even after severe liver disease.
Which plant should not be in house? ›Cotton plants and silky cotton plants are not a great idea to have at home. These snowy white plants look very pretty when used as a decorative element but they are not the perfect choice as per vastu. These plants are inauspicious and bring bad luck when placed indoors.
Is aloe vera toxic to cats? ›Aloe juice and pulp can be used to treat a variety of conditions in people, but it is highly toxic to cats. Keep aloe plants away from cats, like on your refrigerator or in your bedroom, and spray the plants with vinegar to make them less tasty to curious felines who find them.
Is alocasia toxic to cats? ›The plant: Alocasia (Elephant's ear)
Leafy and exotic looking, it's no wonder that the alocasia is one of America's most popular houseplants. Unfortunately, it's a no-go if you have a cat because, like lilies, it contains insoluble calcium oxalates that cause kidney failure, notes the ASPCA.
With its gorgeous dark leaves, the Zamioculcas Zamiifolia or ZZ plant is a popular houseplant that can stand up to some neglect and thrive in low-light environments. Unfortunately, this common plant is considered toxic to cats, other pets, and humans.
Is mother in law tongue poisonous to cats? ›Snake plants, also called mother-in-law's tongue, are toxic to cats. All parts of the plant contain saponins, which are organic chemicals that protect plants from bugs, bacteria and fungi.
Are elephant ears safe for pets? ›Elephant ears contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, toxic to dogs and cats. If your dog decides to take a nibble of this vegetation, the act of chewing or biting releases the crystals, which penetrate his tissues, leading to symptoms such as drooling, pawing at the face, foaming at the mouth and vomiting.
Is alocasia Cucullata toxic to cats? ›According to ASPCA Alocasia is a toxic plant containing Oxalate crystals which can cause mouth distress, dizziness, vomiting, and indigestion. Most cats are fussy eaters who are picky about what they feed. As a result, poisoning in cats is uncommon.
Are Elephant Bush poisonous to cats? ›
Description: This cat safe plant, the Succulent Elephant Bush is a common succulent native to South Africa. Cultivated as an ornamental plant, this plant is a great choice for any beginner succulent collector as it is very low maintenance and its dense bright green leaves are an essential look.
Is Spider plant toxic to cats? ›Spider plants are listed as non-toxic, so you don't need to get too worried if you find Fluffy gnawing on them.
What if my cat eats a snake plant? ›In short, a snake plant will not kill your cat. But it is strongly advisable to take him or her to the veterinarian after you see the symptoms. Even if you don't see any symptoms yet, but your cat has ingested the plant, it's always better to be safe and see the vet.
Are succulents poisonous to cats? ›Many succulents in the euphorbia genus, such as the pencil cactus and crown of thorns, are poisonous to both cats and dogs. Symptoms of poisoning from ingesting this succulent range from gastrointestinal upset to skin and eye irritation.
Is a philodendron toxic to cats? ›A: Philodendron leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals which, if ingested, irritate the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the stomach and intestines. Affected cats drool and exhibit signs of abdominal pain. If your kitten chews your philodendron, paws at his mouth and then rubs his eyes, they'll hurt too.
Which of the following houseplants can be toxic to pets? ›Pothos/Devil's Ivy (Epipremnum Aureum)
All parts of this exotic-looking plant can cause problems for your pet dog. This includes the roots, leaves and even the seeds. They're all poisonous and ingesting any part of the plant can lead to diarrhea, vomiting and even liver failure.
Alocasias are another plant that have grown quite popular throughout 2020 and 2021 with their heart- and arrow-shaped leaves. Some of the more popular varieties include alocasia silver dragon, dragon scale alocasia, and alocasia black velvet. Unfortunately, they're also very poisonous (to both humans and pets).
Is alocasia black velvet an indoor plant? ›As a commonly grown indoor plant, Alocasia reginula 'Black Velvet' will comfortably grow in most household conditions. That being said, for a tropical species that doesn't like an overly moist soil, it really does appreciate a higher humidity and temperature.
Is Alocasia amazonica poisonous? ›Poison. The alocasia is highly poisonous to dogs, cats, horses and humans and can cause death if consumed. If it touches the skin, the alocasia can cause skin irritation. Every part of this plant is poisonous.
Is aloe vera toxic to cats? ›Aloe juice and pulp can be used to treat a variety of conditions in people, but it is highly toxic to cats. Keep aloe plants away from cats, like on your refrigerator or in your bedroom, and spray the plants with vinegar to make them less tasty to curious felines who find them.
Is bamboo toxic to cats? ›
For true Bambusoideae species of bamboo, it is non toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Fun fact: Foliage of bamboo can contain up to 22% protein, so it's even good for them! Protein content varies from species to species and even varies depending on the age of the leaves.
Are ferns safe for cats? ›Thankfully, most true ferns are safe for cats. If your curious kitty helps herself to a tiny serving, she's unlikely to be harmed. According to the ASPCA, the following plants are considered “true ferns” and are generally harmless to cats: Boston fern.