Are Succulents Poisonous to Cats?
There are many succulents that are safe for cats, but there are some that are toxic. Find out are succulents poisonous to cats or not.
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Succulents are plants that usually are fleshy, have leaves that are thick and juicy and are often found in warmer climates. They are known for their ability to store water and survive in times of drought. These qualities are why they are known as drought-resistant plants for the home.
Succulents are great for people that are looking to decorate their homes with unique, beautiful, and easy to care for plants. However, if you have pets at home, you should watch out for the types of succulents you choose to grow in your home.
Are succulents poisonous to cats?
Succulents are considered toxic to cats and dogs. But the toxicity varies from plant to plant. Some succulents are considered mildly poisonous to cats and dogs, while others are considered deadly.
The toxic effects of succulents in cats are usually due to the presence of saponin, which is a poisonous substance that is found in many different types of plants. In addition to this, succulents can also cause severe burns to a cat’s mouth if they are ingested.
How can I keep my cats away from poisonous succulents?
There are many ways to keep your cats away from toxic plants. Since most succulents plant has sharp edges that can hurt your cats while chewing on it, it is advised that you keep the plant away from the reach of your cat.
You can also spray some bitter spray on the plant leaves to discourage your cat from chewing on it. Moreover, you can also plant your succulent in a hanging basket that is high enough.
Succulents toxic to cats
Here are some of the most poisonous succulents to pet cats and dogs:
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a popular medicinal plant that most people have in their homes. It is also a favorite plant for cats and dogs, which is why you should be careful when you use it. When the leaves are chewed, they can cause vomiting and diarrhea. The tips of the leaves are the most poisonous part.
2. Agave (Century Plant)
The Agave is a group of succulent plants that have a high level of saponin. This plant would be considered mildly toxic to cats.
Saponin is a toxic substance found in many succulents. If your cat ingests it, symptoms of toxicity may develop as soon as one hour after ingestion.
The symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, lethargy, tachycardia (abnormally fast heart rate), seizures, and in extreme cases, death.
3. Kalanchoe
The Kalanchoe plant is very popular in the home and garden. It is often used as an outdoor landscaping plant and also as a houseplant. However, it is highly toxic to cats and dogs. It causes vomiting and diarrhea in both animals.
4. Dieffenbachia Plant
The Dieffenbachia plant is commonly known as the tropical dumb cane. It is a popular houseplant. The leaves and the sap of the plant can cause swelling in the mouth, tongue, face, and throat. The leaves of the plant may also cause blistering.
5. Mother-in-law’s tongue
The Mother-in-law’s tongue plant is also known as the Sansevieria. It is a popular indoor plant that can live for a long time. It is a low maintenance plant and is easy to care for. However, it is toxic to cats and dogs. The plant causes vomiting and drooling for both animals.
6. African Violet Plant
African Violets are very popular houseplants. They are easy to care for and are low maintenance. However, they are toxic to pets. The leaves, stems, and sap are all poisonous to cats and dogs.
7. Dieffenbachia Plant
The Dieffenbachia plant is commonly known as the tropical dumb cane. It is a popular houseplant. The leaves and the sap of the plant can cause swelling in the mouth, tongue, face, and throat. The leaves of the plant may also cause blistering.
8. Pothos Plant
The Pothos plant is also known as the Devil’s Ivy. It is a popular plant for outdoor landscaping. It is also a great houseplant and can be grown indoors too. However, Pothos plants are poisonous to cats and dogs.
9. Aloe Powder Plant
This plant contains large amounts of saponin that can be highly toxic to cats. Saponin is a chemical found in plants that is used mainly to protect the leaves against predators.
If you have an Aloe Powder Plant in your home, it would be best to keep your cat away from it. Make sure your cat cannot get access to it and never let them play with it.
If your cat ingests the saponin found in this plant, symptoms may develop as soon as one hour after ingestion.
This plant can cause severe stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, lethargy, heart arrhythmia, and even death.
Succulents that are safe for cats
Succulents make for a great pet-friendly plant. The key is to select the right plant for your pet. It’s important to inform yourself about which plants are toxic to pets and what plants are safe for your household.
Generally speaking, succulents are a safe choice for cats and dogs. However, it’s important to be informed before you introduce a new plant to your pet.
The following is a list of some of the most common non-toxic succulents for pets:
- Jade plant (Crassula ovata)
- String of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
- Ponytail palms (Beaucarnea recurvata)
- Piggy-back plant (Tolmiea menziesii)
- Ponytail cactus (Sedum morganianum)
- Aloe plant (Aloe barbadensis)
Conclusion
Succulents for cats can be a wonderful addition to your home, especially if you have a cat or a dog. Moreover, they are a great way to make your home a little more beautiful. Therefore, make sure to choose a safe plant for your dear pets.
