Luckily, most succulents are considered non-toxic and are harmless to pets when ingested. Others contain skin irritants that can cause minor skin irritations, and some can cause mild symptoms when ingested. But there are a few succulents that can be fatal when ingested in large quantities.
The signs of poisoning if your cat eats a succulent can vary based on the type of succulent he ate, but there are some common symptoms to be familiar with. “Most of them will cause vomiting and diarrhea,” Dr. Grieve said.
Are succulents toxic for cats? Certain succulents are toxic for cats and dogs, including Aloe Vera, Crassula (Jade), Euphorbia (such as Pencil Cactus or Crown of Thorns), Kalanchoe, and Sansevieria (Snake Plant).
Kalanchoe and Euphorbia succulents are two succulents that can be toxic to humans.
Jade Plant
This plant comes in many varieties that all make striking statements in home décor. It is, unfortunately, also toxic to cats, and it can cause some mild to moderate symptoms if it is ingested by your feline family member. Jade plants can cause lethargy, weakness, and vomiting if eaten by a cat.
Although considered a medicinal plant for humans, aloe vera's level of toxicity is mild to moderate for cats and dogs. Vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, depression, anorexia, tremors, change in urine colour. Chinese evergreen's level of toxicity is mild to moderate, though symptoms can include liver and kidney damage.
For the most part, cats and pets do not find succulents particularly yummy so they generally stay away from them after one or two bites. BUT there are always those pets that deviate from the norm and these are the ones you'll find taking a nibble here and there or even feast on your succulent plants.
Some species, for example, many succulents, have a fine, dusty-looking layer on their leaves. It's called 'farina,' and it acts as sunscreen, protecting the leaves from sunburn. If you notice farina on your plant's leaves, avoid touching them, as the oils on human skin can easily remove this protective layer.
Unlike peace lilies and pothos, Chlorophytum comosum is one houseplant that can be safely nibbled by your kitties without requiring a trip to the emergency animal hospital. According to both the ASPCA and the National Capital Poison Center, aka Poison Control, spider plants are non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Snake plants are very toxic to cats because they contain mildly poisonous toxins known as Saponin, which is a defensive mechanism these plants use to protect themselves from harmful fungi, insects, microbes, and other animals like cats. ASPCA also reports that all parts of snake plants are not safe for cats.
There are many pet-repellent sprays available in pet stores and in various nurseries that you can spray on your plant without any harmful effects to either of them. You can also make a few at home with vinegar, orange, lemon, cayenne pepper or chili pepper.
Depending on the plant species that has been ingested, the early signs and symptoms of poisoning can vary greatly. Irritants may cause symptoms such as: irritation around the mouth, itchiness, swelling, and red or watery eyes.
Fortunately, most succulents are completely harmless to animals. Additionally, most animals instinctively avoid eating succulents.
Most cats are fastidious creatures and are careful about what they eat. Poisoning in cats is therefore generally rare. It is the young inquisitive cat or kitten that is most at risk of eating harmful plants, particularly household ones. Boredom also has a part to play.
Different toxins affect cats differently, so it can take anywhere from minutes or hours to days for a cat to show signs of poisoning. For example, a lily leaf will make a cat sick immediately, while painkillers may take two to three days before symptoms show.
For true Bambusoideae species of bamboo, it is non toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Fun fact: Foliage of bamboo can contain up to 22% protein, so it's even good for them! Protein content varies from species to species and even varies depending on the age of the leaves.
Houseplants poisonous to cats
Care should be taken when purchasing house plants, as varieties such as cycads, cheese plants and aloe vera are not cat-friendly. Seasonal plants like mistletoe and poinsettia are also dangerous.
Peace lilies are mildly poisonous to cats, although the compounds they contain are fortunately not as toxic as those of true lilies. Even so, call your vet immediately! Your kitty is very uncomfortable, but she should survive the ordeal.
The roots of a succulent become stable with a top dressing. The plant grows much healthier as it gets the support of rocks. The aesthetic value of succulents is added to a great extent. These decorative pebbles can give your plant the much-needed lift.
Keep these plants in the bedroom for an extra boost of refreshed air during your sleep that ultimately leads to a better night's sleep. They purify the air - Succulents, like snake plant and aloe vera, are excellent at cleansing the air and removing toxins.
And since plants do not have brains, nor a central nervous system (which is how intelligence is defined), it is said to be impossible for them to have emotions and the ability to reason or feel.
Lemongrass (cymbopagon) – Kitties love the smell of lemongrass, so if you're growing some for yourself, grow some extra for them to gnaw on. 3. Catnip (nepeta cataria) – As seen in the photo below, some kitties will go absolutely crazy for this stuff. Caution: it will also attract neighborhood cats.
Cats dislike the smell of rue, lavender and pennyroyal, Coleus canina and lemon thyme. Plant a few of these throughout the garden.