Interior decoration often embraces the beauty of plants. However, beneath their pleasant appearance, some houseplants can harbor deadly toxins for our feline companions.
For the safer and healthier living of your pet, we have listed 10 plants and flowers that you should never keep in your home. However, it would be best if you were not solely reliant on this list.
Plants and flowers not mentioned on this list but currently present in your home may still be toxic. It is wise to confirm if the plant you are about to buy or those already present are harmful. At the end of this article, you can also find a list of non-toxic plants and flowers you can choose from.
Philodendron: A Frequent Indoor Choice Containing Toxic Chemicals
Philodendron, also known as monstrea deliciosa, is a commonly preferred plant for homes. However, the calcium oxalates it contains are toxic for cats. Contact, biting, chewing, and sometimes swallowing can cause symptoms in your cat that start with burning and swelling in the mouth and can lead to drooling and vomiting.
Kalanchoe: Colorful But Dangerous
The toxins contained in the kalanchoe plant not only cause reactions like vomiting and diarrhea in cats but can also lead to severe symptoms like heart rhythm disturbances, seizures, and fainting.
English Ivy: Easily Maintained Yet Harmful
English ivy is often preferred for its easy maintenance and pleasant appearance. Yet, this plant also contains poison for cats. If your cat swallows a piece of ivy, it may face symptoms like swelling, burning, and vomiting.
Lilies: Hidden Danger Beneath Beauty
Lilies are another plant harboring danger beneath their beautiful appearance. The entire plant carries poison for cats, and even a small bite can lead to poisoning. If not treated promptly, it can result in death. Although the initial symptoms can be severe and gradually diminish over time, kidney failure may have occurred, leading to possible death within 7 days.
Jade Plant: Symbol of Prosperity but Dangerous
The Jade plant, known for bringing fortune and prosperity, is not just toxic to cats; it’s also poisonous for dogs and horses. If ingested, symptoms can start with numbness, vomiting, loss of balance, and depression, and they may increase over time.
Aloe Vera: Healing but Hazardous
Aloe vera, commonly used for its various medicinal properties, can be poisonous even to some human blood types and is also extremely dangerous for cats. The saponins and anthraquinones it contains can cause the aforementioned symptoms of poisoning.
Rubber Plant: Widespread Use with Hidden Danger
Rubber plants are commonly used indoors and secrete toxins and enzymes to prevent herbivores from eating them. Therefore, if any part of the plant is bitten, various symptoms can appear.
Chrysanthemum: Traditional Garden Plant but Risky
Chrysanthemums or mums are traditional garden plants. However, the sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins, and other irritants they contain can cause symptoms in cats such as drooling, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of balance, and skin irritation.
Tulips: Captivating but Catastrophic
Tulips, especially the bulbous part, contain toxic substances that can cause symptoms ranging from tachycardia, rhythm disorders to respiratory insufficiency.
Begonia: All Parts Toxic
Another plant that poses a threat to our feline friends is Begonia. All parts of the plant, especially the tubers and stem, contain toxins that can cause liver and kidney failure, which could lead to death.
Safe Flower and Plant Options
Given all these hazards, it’s important to note that there are still flowers and plants that you can safely keep in your home. Here are some plants and flowers that are safe for your cat:
Non-toxic Flowers:
- Orchid
- Blue Daisy
- Marigold
- Gloxinia
- Sunflower
- Camellia
- Nasturtium
- Rose
- Blood Flower
- Violet
- Snapdragons
- Gerbera
- Petunia
- Jasmine
- Zinnia
- African Daisy
Non-toxic Plants:
- Peperomia Plant
- Love Ladder
- Ribbon Flower
- Dwarf Date Palm
- Bamboo Palm
- Areca Palm
- Parlor Palm
- Mountain Palm
- Banana Plant
Conclusion
Choosing plants and flowers with your cat’s health in mind is vitally important. The plants and flowers on our list contain toxins that could harm your cat’s health. However, it is possible to enjoy nature’s beauty in your home with non-toxic plants and flowers. Always prioritize your cat’s health when deciding which plants to keep in your home. Be mindful when selecting plants and ensure your cat is always safe.
