Safe and Harmful Houseplants for Cats

Safe and Harmful Houseplants for Cats

If you love cats, you must know that some houseplants are toxic for them. If your cat chews on any part of these plants, it can be dangerous for them. These plants would have alkaloids that may cause no harm to humans, but they are poisonous for cats.

Toxic houseplants to avoid
Houseplants that are toxic for cats can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, drooling from the mouth, seizures, depression, cardiac problems, and even organ failure. Some of them can also be fatal, so avoid keeping the following houseplants in your home if you have a cat:

  • Sago palm is one of the most toxic plants for cats as its seeds are highly poisonous.
  • Lilies and the asparagus fern are highly dangerous for cats and can cause kidney failure. Additionally, 1 in 5 incidents in cats due to toxic plants is because of lilies.
  • The castor bean plant is considered one of the most poisonous plants in the world.
  • Larkspur is a popular houseplant known for its colorful flowers. It is a toxic plant that can cause respiratory and cardiac failure, also leading to death.
  • Crocus is another toxic houseplant that can cause organ failure.
  • Oleander is an ornamental plant that can cause diarrhea, drowsiness, stomach pain, cardiac problems, and even death.
  • Jade or money plant is yet another houseplant that is toxic for cats.
  • Caladium is a houseplant that can affect the oral cavity and cause breathing problems.

Plants that are safe for cats
Pet lovers and people with cats at home should avoid adorning their homes with the above-mentioned toxic houseplants for the well-being of their pets. Having said that, you don’t need to cut back on home decor with plants if you have a cat. Instead, just choose from the list of plants that are safe for cats. The following are some that do not lead to any poisonous effects even if your cat eats them:

  • The Christmas cactus is a colorful ornamental plant that can be kept at home as it is not toxic for cats. It may cause digestive issues if ingested, but it’s a lot safer than the other plants that might risk your pet’s life.
  • A fern, Maidenhair can also be kept at home as ferns are safe for cats and do not cause any permanent health issues if your cat ingests them. At the same time, avoid the asparagus fern. It is not a fern but a type of lily, a houseplant that is highly toxic for cats.
  • Lace flower is a vine plant that you can hang from the ceiling, out of reach for your pet. It is an attractive plant and is unlikely to cause any harm even if your pet chews on it.
  • The lipstick plant is one that can add color to your home while also being safe for your cat.
  • Valerian is a plant that stimulates cats, so they would love it. It is also safe, unlike catnip, which can be toxic.

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