Being a plant lover is one thing, but our plants will never be able to replace our precious fur babies. Unfortunately, there are many houseplants that are toxic to cats, and it is important to be aware of these. First things first, I did not exclude dogs from this article because I wish for them to be poisoned at all. Even though I am more of a cat person, I still adore dogs. The reason for the separate article specifically on cats is because:
1. Houseplants that are toxic to cats might differ from those that are toxic to dogs.
2. Some cats are much more inclined to eat plants than dogs are. Cats are genetically predispositioned to eat plants and grass. It’s as simple as that.
Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian, and the advice of your pet’s healthcare provider should always be considered primarily.
Also, note that I will only be covering the most popular houseplants that are toxic to cats. If the plant in question is not on this list, a quick google search should suffice, and if you don’t mind, quickly come back to this article and pop the name of that plant in the comments below.
Why Do Cats Eat Plants?
There are several speculations as to why cats eat plants and grass. The first is that cats have a dietary deficiency which they can maintain when eating grass and plants that include folic acid and vitamins A, B, and D.
The other speculation is that cats inherited the need from their wild ancestors to cleanse their intestines from worms, even though most domestic cats are (hopefully) dewormed regularly.
Understanding the reasons behind this behavior can help prevent your cat from munching on houseplants that are toxic to cats.
Houseplants That ARE Toxic To Cats
Here’s a list of popular houseplants that are toxic to cats, along with their harmful components and symptoms of poisoning. For a more detailed list of houseplants that are toxic to cats, please refer to the ASPCA's Toxic Plants List.
1. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Don’t let the name fool you. The peace lily wants violence, not peace when it comes to our little furry friends.
I placed peace lilies at the top of the list for a reason: they are incredibly popular houseplants, yet many people are unaware that every part of this plant is toxic to cats. This beautiful plant, with its elegant white blooms, can cause severe reactions in our feline friends if ingested. It's crucial to be aware of this risk and keep peace lilies out of reach of your pets.
Toxic Components: Insoluble Calcium Oxalates
2. Flamingo Flower (Anthurium)
The Anthurium, also a very popular flowering houseplant, is unfortunately a no-go when you have cats, as every part of this beautiful plant is highly toxic to your pet, even when ingested in small quantities. This plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which, when chewed on, will be released and cause irritation to your cat's mouth and GI tract. This can lead to swelling of the airways and make breathing difficult.
Toxic Components: Insoluble Calcium Oxalates
3. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Although mostly grown outside, some plant lovers (myself included) really like the look of this beautiful trailing plant prefer to display it inside, where we can see it every day. In my case, I hung my basket of English Ivy over the shower head, far from where the cats can reach.
Toxic Component: Triterpenoid saponins
4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos: the staple in every plant enthusiast’s collection, which makes it a particularly important one to mention. I can tell you from personal experience that these plants are indeed toxic to cats, as I was the lucky winner who got to clean cat vomit from the floor that day. But please don't be fooled into thinking that the cats learned their lesson though - they keep coming back from more.
Toxic Components: Insoluble calcium oxalates
5. Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia seguine)
Dieffenbachia is another common houseplant, loved for its big, beautiful leaves and sturdy growth. Because of its size, it's often placed on the floor or on low tables, making it easily accessible to curious cats. However, it's important to be aware that every part of this plant is toxic to cats. If ingested, the calcium oxalate crystals in Dieffenbachia can cause severe irritation in their mouth, throat, and stomach, leading to swelling and difficulty swallowing.
Toxic Component: Insoluble calcium oxalates, proteolytic enzyme
6. Swiss Cheese Monstera
The Swiss cheese monstera is a particularly aesthetically pleasing houseplant that has become very popular in recent years. Luckily, this is a climbing plant that can be trained to grow up high, away from where your cats can reach.
Toxic Component: calcium oxalate crystals
7. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is equally as toxic to cats as it is beneficial to humans. Aside from the toxicity, the leaves of the aloe vera plant also have little spikes, that can physically hurt your cats if they try to chew on it, or rub themselves against it.
Toxic Components: Saponins, anthraquinones
8. Snake Plant
Being one of the easiest to care for plants with its thriving-in-darkness and not-so-thirsty properties, the snake plant is a staple in most households. In my experience, cats tend to ignore the snake plant, but rather be safe than sorry and avoid it, as it has a single toxic component.
Toxic Component: Saponins
9. Monstera Deliciosa
This one is a tough pill to swallow, because monstera’s are one of the most beautiful tropical plants that are very popular to keep as indoor plants. I have a monstera that I keep on a shelf unit that my cats can’t get up on.
Toxic Component: Insoluble calcium oxalates
Symptoms of Toxic Plant Ingestion in Cats
Recognizing the signs of poisoning from houseplants that are toxic to cats is essential. If you think your cat might have nibbled on a toxic plant, there are several signs you should look out for:
- Drooling: Excessive salivation is often one of the first signs something is wrong.
- Vomiting: Cats may vomit as their bodies try to get rid of the toxins.Diarrhea: Upset stomachs can lead to diarrhea.
- Loss of Appetite: If your cat suddenly stops eating or seems uninterested in food, it could be a sign of discomfort.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Swelling or irritation in their mouth and throat might make it hard for them to swallow.
- Lethargy: A drop in energy or unusual tiredness can indicate they’re not feeling well.
- Excessive Thirst: Increased thirst might be a response to dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea.
- Respiratory Issues: In severe cases, swelling can make breathing difficult.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to reach out to your vet right away for advice and treatment.
What To Do If You Already Own a Toxic Plant
You may have gone through the above list and realized that some of your plants are toxic to your cat(s). As disappointing as this may be, try to see it as an opportunity to either get creative, get into the spirit of giving, or even make some money through one of the following ways:
- If the plant is small enough, place it somewhere your cat can’t reach, like a high shelf.
- Gift the plant to a friend who doesn’t own any pets.
- If you aren't in a very giving mood, consider listing your plant on online platforms like Facebook Marketplace. Plants are an expensive commodity these days, and you might get some great pocket money if you are willing to part with it.
Tips For Keeping Your Houseplants That Are Toxic To Cats Out Of Reach
There are many solutions that can be considered when it comes to keeping a toxic plant out of reach of your cats. This being said, it is important to keep in mind that different cats have different personalities and physical abilities. For example, one of my cats will rarely, if ever, jump onto the countertops, yet the other one loves being at eye level with us. You know your cats, and you know where your cats will be able to reach, so make sure to place your plants accordingly.
1. Hanging Planters
Hanging planters are one of my favorite ways to display my plants while keeping them out of reach for my cats. If you don’t have the option or energy to drill holes in your ceiling or walls to accommodate hanging planters, there are many ways you could still make use of them, it just takes a little imagination. You can hook your planters over your curtain rails, and towel hooks, and even make use of a mobile clothes hanger solely for the display of your plants.
2. Shelves
If you don’t mind drilling a few holes, then shelves are a great option to display your plants vertically. Staying on the topic of cats and toxic plants: ensure that the shelves are entirely filled, or not wide enough for your cats to be able to jump onto.
3. Lemon Infused Plant Spray
Cats hate the smell and taste of citrus. Being an avid citrus lover, I have noticed that my younger, curious cat likes to smell my lemon juice, and he immediately regrets it every time, crinkling his nose in disgust. Mixing lemon juice with water and regularly spritzing your plants with the solution might just keep your cats away from your greenery. If you have tried and tested this trick, please report back in the comment section, and let me know if it worked!
What To Do If Your Cat Ate a Toxic Plant?
So, you skimmed through the above list and realized that the plant your cat just used as a chew toy is, in fact, toxic? Immediate steps to take if your cat ingests houseplants that are toxic to cats usually involves contacting your veterinarian and giving them as much information as possible:
- What plant did your cat eat?
- How much of the plant did your cat eat?
- Did your cat vomit after eating the plant?
- Is your cat displaying any other strange behaviors?
Note: I usually don’t realize that one of my cats got a hold of a plant that may be toxic to them until I hear the frightening sound of one of them vomiting (nothing gets you on your feet faster than a hurling cat).
It is only during inspection of the discharge while trying to keep myself from vomiting, that I usually find a leaf and realize that they must have chewed on one of my plants. After emitting the foreign, sometimes toxic, leaf from their stomach, they are usually fine.
Houseplants That Are Safe For Cats
Luckily, there are hundreds, if not thousands of houseplants to choose from that are perfectly safe for cats. Some common houseplants that are safe for cats include:
- Catnip (Nepeta cataria)*
- Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)*
- Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
- Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
- Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
- Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
- All orchids
- All air plants
- All calatheas
- Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
- Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
Thanks for reading! I hope you now have a clearer understanding of what plants are toxic when ingested by cats. Being informed about houseplants that are toxic to cats can prevent potential health issues and ensure a safe environment for your pets. Below are a few more frequently asked questions and answers regarding houseplants that are toxic for cats.
Do you have any experiences with houseplants that are toxic to cats? Share your stories and tips in the comments below to help fellow cat owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What houseplants are toxic to cats?
Many common houseplants are toxic to cats, including lilies, philodendrons, pothos, aloe vera, and snake plants. It's important to research and ensure your plants are safe for your feline friends.
2. How can I tell if a houseplant is toxic to my cat?
Symptoms of plant toxicity in cats can include vomiting, drooling, difficulty breathing, and lethargy. If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic plant, consult your vet immediately.
3. Are all varieties of lilies toxic to cats?
Yes, all varieties of lilies, including Easter lilies, tiger lilies, and peace lilies, are highly toxic to cats. Ingesting any part of these plants can cause severe kidney damage.
4. What should I do if my cat eats a toxic houseplant?
If your cat eats a toxic houseplant, contact your veterinarian right away. Try to identify the plant your cat ingested and provide this information to the vet for proper treatment.
5. Are there any non-toxic houseplants safe for cats?
Yes, there are many cat-safe houseplants such as spider plants, Boston ferns, and certain succulents like haworthia and echeveria. Always double-check the plant’s safety before bringing it into your home.
6. Can I have houseplants and cats together safely?
Yes, you can have houseplants and cats together safely by choosing non-toxic plants and placing toxic plants out of reach. Using hanging planters or high shelves can help keep plants away from curious cats.
7. Why are some houseplants toxic to cats?
Some houseplants contain compounds that are toxic to cats, such as calcium oxalates, saponins, or essential oils. These substances can cause various health issues when ingested by cats.
8. How can I keep my cat away from toxic houseplants?
To keep your cat away from toxic houseplants, place the plants in areas your cat cannot reach, use deterrent sprays, or provide alternative cat-friendly plants for them to chew on, like cat grass.
9. Are Succulents Safe for Cats?
Yes, most succulents are harmless to animals. Ironically, cats tend to stay away from succulents, even though they are completely harmless. If only they applied this same caution to plants that are actually toxic when ingested.
10. Do Cats Know Not to Eat Poisonous Plants?
Plant poisoning in cats is very uncommon, mostly because they tend to be very meticulous about what they eat and will stray clear from foreign-looking consumables. Kittens and housecats, however, tend to be more curious and will sometimes have a go at a plant, so it is best to avoid toxic plants when you are a cat parent.
