Are Spider Plants toxic to dogs and cats? No! Chlorophytum comosum, commonly referred to as Spider Plants, are safe for dogs and probably one of the most widely recognized houseplants.
Mildly Toxic Plants:
Fiddle Leaf Fig (left) and Spider Plant (right) can be toxic to both dogs and cats. Small ingestions of either plant can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, skin irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea. These plants contain insoluble calcium oxalates.
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.
Spider Plant or Airplane Plant (Chlorophytum) is a very common houseplant, often grown in hanging baskets. It has arching green (or green and white), striped leaves. Stems carry baby plants at the end. This plant is not toxic to people, but as with all plants, it can be a choking hazard if eaten.
The following plants are the most toxic to dogs and should never be made available to them under any circumstances: Castor bean or castor oil plant (Ricinus communis) Cyclamen (Cylamen spp.) Dumbcane (Dieffenbachia)
Your vet might recommend bringing your pet in to give him IV fluids, induce vomiting, or administer activated charcoal (which can help absorb the toxin), says Barrack. She'll also determine whether your pet needs further treatment.
Spider plants aren't toxic or poisonous for humans or dogs. However, they do contain chemical compounds that are mild hallucinogens. If cats ingest them, they may experience hallucinations. They may also experience gastric problems, such as an upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Spider plant leaves. Sharp, mustard-flavored tender leaves and shoots are eaten boiled or in stews.
Toxicity: The plant is posed as non-toxic, but it can potentially be harmful to cats and if eaten can lead to an upset stomach and vomiting. Pests: Spider plants are tough when it comes to pests, but they are susceptible to some pest infestations.
However, cats and dogs do love the taste of spider plant, and will sometimes eat enough to make them sick. This is not a toxic reaction, just a little tummy upset from over-indulging. If it is a problem, place your spider plants in high places, such as on top of a refrigerator or dresser."
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.
Snake plants (Sansevieria)
Because of its striking appearance and the fact that it's very easy to care for, snake plants are incredibly popular indoor plants. Unfortunately, they are also poisonous plants for dogs and can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea if consumed, says the ASPCA.
If your dog swallows a harmful spider, it doesn't mean there will be no reaction. It is a good idea to carefully monitor your pet for the next few days to see if there is a reaction. He may have an upset stomach or not seem himself. If in doubt, take him to the vet to have him checked out.
But Tina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT, a veterinarian and senior director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, shared with us 5 common plant culprits with more severe clinical signs. "Eating any plant can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in pets," Wismer points out.
Spider plants are gorgeous, sprawling greens that clean the air and are pet-friendly! NASA's study found that spider plants were able to remove 95% of chemicals from the air in 24 hours. Spider plants filter toxins including: carbon monoxide.
Spider plant helps clean indoor air. Studies have shown that spider plant is quite effective in cleaning indoor air by absorbing chemicals including formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, and carbon monoxide in homes or offices. Thick, fleshy roots allow spider plant to tolerate inconsistent watering.
Spider plants can be trimmed at any time, but it's best to do so when they are actively growing. Trimming promotes new growth, removes damaged or diseased foliage, controls size and shape, and can be used for propagation.
Spider plants originate in South Africa, where the air is hot and dry. Another NASA Clean Air plant, spiders are nontoxic to dogs, cats, and humans. They can tolerate low light, but do exceptionally well in bright, indirect sunlight.
Used as a topical gel in conventional medicine, aloe vera is one of many poisonous plants for dogs. When eaten by dogs, aloe vera can cause mild to moderate bouts of toxicity. Side effects may include vomiting, lethargy, depression, tremors and change in urine.
Low humidity and excess fertilizer can cause the spider plants leaf tips to turn brown and die back. Under watering and low humidity cause leaf tips to turn brown due to drought stress. Mist the leaves and increase the watering.
Unfortunately, snake plants are actually toxic to cats as well as dogs. Snake plants contain a toxin known as saponin. Saponin is a defensive mechanism for the plant that allows it to protect itself against harmful microbes, fungi, and insects.
While most leaves that fall from trees are safe for your dog, be wary of areas with heavy pesticide use, as these chemicals can be harmful for your dog if ingested. Graham says that even if leaves come from a "safe" plant, eating too many can cause intestinal blockages, which can be serious.
Affected dogs show signs 30 minutes to 4 hours after ingesting the poison. Initially affected dogs become anxious and have an elevated body temperature. Panting is usually seen. Progressively they become worse and staggery.