6 House Plants That Are Toxic for Cats

6 House Plants That Are Toxic for Cats

Are you an avid plant enthusiast who has always dreamt of filling their home with gorgeous flora? Are you also a cat parent? If yes, then you may have to stop for a minute before buying just any type of plant. Not all plants are safe to have when you own a cat. Some of the plants , when ingested, or even smelt, can be really toxic for your loved pet. Here is a list of poisonous plants for cats that you should know about.

  • Daffodils:  Daffodils are beautiful flowering plants that add color and beauty to your garden. However, they are a part of the list of poisonous plants for cats. All parts of the plant contain a toxic chemical called lycorine. Consumption of lycorine can cause a variety of issues, including vomiting, diarrhea, and extremely low blood pressures in felines. Some cats also go into cardiac arrests by consuming an excess of the plant.
  • Aloe vera:  Though not extremely toxic, aloe vera does cause certain unwanted side effects in cats, including vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and concentrated urine. Some cats are also known to experience lethargy and depression post the consumption of aloe leaves or its gel.
  • Tulips:  Tulips belong to the Liliaceae family, and the whole plant is considered dangerous and poisonous to cats. The main culprit is, however, the bulbs. Your feline babies can fall victim to symptoms like tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, and depression if they eat the bulbs. It can also be fatal. If you have cats at home, do not bring these flowers or plants anywhere near them.
  • Asparagus fern:  Asparagus fern is a decorative plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. This plant is originally from the Liliaceae family too, and is considered one of the poisonous plants for cats. Both the leaves and the berries of the plant are mildly toxic to felines and can cause side effects like gastrointestinal troubles, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin allergies.
  • Sago palm:  Another of the toxic flora for cats is the beautiful sago palm. This is also grown for decorative purposes and is a very common houseplant in the United States. Did you know that this plant can cause poisoning in your pets? Consuming the leaves, bark, or the roots of the plant can cause a variety of symptoms like increased thirst, vomiting, and black stools. Excess consumption can lead to liver failure and death.
  • Lilies:  Lilies are one of the most dangerous plants to have at home when you own cats. There are enough toxins in lilies that chewing just one or two of the plant leaves or the flower petals can cause instant death in cats.

If you own a cat, make a note of all these poisonous plants and keep them away from your house. If you suspect your cat has ingested one or more of these plants, call up your vet and follow his/her instructions right away.