We all know that cats are obligate carnivores. The plant contains a toxic chemical called Saponin that can cause distressing reactions. The plants can cause inflammation of the mouth, skin, or stomach. Required fields are marked *. Boston fern, bamboo palm, and snake plant are all safe plants and are topnotch air pollutant filters. For the plant poisoning, certain care options are used to promote fast recovery in the cat. As we mentioned at the start of this article 19 of the 30 great detoxifying plants that were listed over on Sound Body Life were found to be poisonous and toxic to cats and dogs. Apart from the symptoms mentioned above, you may notice parts of the plant in your cat’s mouth. Well, the short answer is yes. Don’t let this get you worried a lot, especially if you already own a cat and a snake plant. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. However, cats are unlikely to make skin contact with it, as their bodies are covered in fur. While snake plants are non-toxic for humans, the ASPCA reports they are toxic for both cats and dogs and can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. Yes, the snake plant contains saponins which act as natural insecticides but unfortunately, these same toxins can cause serious illness to cats . Over the next two days, reduce the amount of chicken+rice gradually and swap it with regular cat food. The Snake plant is mildly toxic to cats as well and causes gastrointestinal issues to cats. However, it won’t cause any poisoning in cats. The Answer! Most of you may not know that these plants are of high toxicity to your cats, and this is because the leaves of this plant contain hidden organic materials that can … They are poisonous to cats with their tubers being the most toxic parts of the plants. Follow the medicine regimen carefully so ensure a quick recovery. The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is a popular houseplant and a common fixture in hanging baskets. Poisonous Plants For Cats: Although sometimes you are tempted to offer your cat some of what you are eating, you must bear in mind that the best way to feed it is through the combination of dry and wet feed. If you do have a Mother-in-law’s tongue plant in your home, it’s a good idea to keep it in a room your cat cannot enter. My pet cat just tried to repot my Sansevieria trifasciata and make lunch out of the leaves! Aloe Vera. Do not try to induce your cat to vomit unless your vet says to do so. Saponins can be found in all parts of the plant, and contact with the juices may cause irritation to the skin. However, some curious cats might be keen on tasting the plant. When you are certain that your cat has eaten the snake plant, make sure that the cat doesn’t eat it further. The famous low maintenance jade plant can be toxic to cats. It’s interesting to watch cats around plants. You can buy it from a pet store or order it online. They can be decorative, fun to care for, and good for air quality. So, is the snake plant toxic for cats? “It is best to familiarize yourself with the list of toxic plants and keep these types of plants out of your home or garden for the health and safety of your pet,” Dr. Wismer says. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Saving snake plants from pests: Insects, bacteria, fungus and more. Snake plants are another beginner-friendly succulent. Thankfully, the spider plant is not poisonous to cats; however, that doesn’t mean to let your cat free reign over your spider plant, as it can cause some digestive issues for your cat if she won’t leave it alone. Chewing or consuming any part of snake plants in excess puts humans and animals at the risk of developing severe allergic reactions. Poinsettias are one of the more commonly known plants toxic to cats, although they are not quite as toxic as we are led to believe. Ensure the cat drinks plenty of water to prevent potential dehydration as a result of diarrhea. Although Saponin does it’s job well by keeping insects and fungus at bay, it is not good for humans and pets. If the cat has become dehydrated from excessive vomiting or diarrhea, the vet may also administer electrolytes through an IV drip. Saponin is the chemical that makes the snake plant bitter as well. Yes, the snake plant contains saponins which act as natural insecticides but unfortunately, these same toxins can cause serious illness to cats. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), snake plant is a toxic houseplant for cats as well as dogs. But it is strongly advisable to take him or her to the veterinarian after you see the symptoms. Dermatitis is a form of skin diseases that creates rash or irritation. If there are visible bits of leaves in the cat’s mouth and teeth, try to remove them. The autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale), also known as meadow saffron or naked lady, is a common ornamental flowering plant that blooms in the fall. When you perform daily maintenance, wash up after handling Snake Plant. As many houseplants are toxic for cats, provide information about all the plants you keep indoors as well as outdoors. The toxic chemical of the lily plant is unknown but it does contain something that causes kidney failure in cats.For dogs with an existing kidney or liver disease, the same can happen.All your vet can do is offer support because the prognosis is poor at best. Ingesting the sap of the Snake Plant can cause a number of symptoms, including: If you notice your cat or other pets exhibiting any of the symptoms listed above, be sure to contact your vet. Because, these are common signs of poisoning and can be caused by different things. The leaves of snake plant usually grow vertically from its basal rosette, which will turn dark green with gray-green cross-banding that turns dark green when mature. It is in fact mildly toxic and can cause some gastrointestinal problems. The most common side effects of ingestion are mild vomiting and drooling, and occasionally, diarrhea. Some plants are toxic to cats and others are simply overly attractive to these curious fur-balls, especially when it comes to the spider plant. Feed the cat a mixture of small pieces of boiled chicken breasts (skinned and boned) with rice. While they are quite appealing and showy, calla lilies are toxic or poisonous to cats and even dogs. The snake plant, commonly referred to as mother-in-law’s tongue, is a resilient succulent that can grow anywhere between 6 inches to several feet. HELP! These tests will also provide the vet with valuable information about your cat’s health condition. These plants are quite hardy and can grow almost anywhere. Autumn Crocus ( Colchicum autumnale) Azaleas and … In this article, we discuss Snake Plant poisoning and cats along with sharing advice to help you avoid or deal with it. At first, the vet will ensure all the plant matter is removed from the cat’s mouth before starting any further treatment. Snake Plant contains mild toxins in the form of saponins and organic acids. This will make your pet expel out the remaining plant parts and prevent further digestion of toxins. The snake plant contains toxic saponins capable of causing illness in a cat. Therefore, all parts of the snake plant should be avoided due to their toxic nature. Are Snake Plants Poisonous To Cats? Are Snake Plants Poisonous To Cats? Plants poisonous to cats. Saponin is present in the long upright leaves and stem of the plant, parts that are easily accessible. Another great floor plant, the mother-in-law's tongue, or snake plant, has leathery, sword-like leaves that earned the plant its sharp name. Plants, Indoor and Outdoor, that are poisonous to cats. In case your vet has recommended any specific type of food, give it to your cat at stated times. Are snake plants poisonous to cats? So keep a close watch on them in the first 24 hours. It is Yes! But as explained earlier, it is still very unlikely. Butterfly Pea on July 01, 2019: Is Buttfly Pea (tea, blooms, leaves, etc) toxic to cats? Snake Plant Care – How to grow Mother In Law’s Tongue, Sansevieria Trifasciata Laurentii – How to grow and care for the snake plant, Viper’s bowstring hemp – How to grow and cultivate the plant, Swelling of organs such as tongue, mouth, lips, throat. While it is common knowledge that lilies (all parts of the plant) are poisonous to cats, many other plants can be dangerous if eaten. This pretty plant is a popular house plant choice because it is fast growing and easy to care for. For example, the blood work informs your vet as to the makeup and chemistry of your cat’s blood and the animal’s levels of hydration. Chlorophytum Comosum, airplane plants, or spider plants are safe for cats and other pets, i.e., they are not toxic or poisonous to not just your cats but also dogs and horses. After consuming any part of the plant, pets will start showing some common symptoms. To protect your cat from toxic plants growing outdoors, keep the cat indoors where you have full control on objects they are exposed to. Usually it should take 1-2 days. Autumn crocus is poisonous to dogs, cats and horses, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. The snake plant contains mild toxins in the form of saponins and organic acids. Here are those plants: 1. It features a stiff leaves that turn dark green when it matures grows up to 90 cm and 6 cm wide. When you visit your veterinarian, he or she will examine your cat and will probably perform a urinalysis and some blood work to determine exactly what toxin is causing your cat’s symptoms. If taken in large quantities, it can lead to vomiting and difficulty in swallowing. If your cat ingests it, she will have symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, reduced appetite, depression, among other symptoms. These symptoms are relatively easy to treat. The bitter taste of snake plants combined with a burning sensation in the mouth, makes the plant inedible. Here are some tips and quick fixes for preventing your pets from ingesting the houseplants you have. Generally, only a mild reaction will occur from snake plant consumption. This solution is the only one that can guarantee that your cat will not eat any prohibited food that could harm it. Try to find out the species name of the snake plant that your cat has eaten, and cut a leaf sample to take it with you to the vet. Nearly all dogs and cats hate the smell of citrus. Michaelmas Daisy: How To Grow and Care For Aster Novi-belgi, Dames Rocket: How To Grow and Care For Hesperis Matronalis, Carrion Flower Stapelia – Giant Cactus Starfish Plant [GROWING & CARE], Cat Lover Gift Idea: New Product Giveaway That Will Have You Feline Happy. The Mother-in-Law’s Tongue is poisonous for both cats and dogs. If you think that your animal is ill or may have ingested a poisonous substance, contact your local veterinarian or our 24-hour emergency poison hotline directly at 1-888-426-4435. The only serious threat that this plant poses is a potentially severe allergic … The toxicity level of the snake plants is very mild to pose a life threatening risk to your pet. A cat’s gastrointestinal reaction may be mild to moderate, but the pet most probably won’t cross the line into life threatening toxicosis. The snake plant contains toxic saponins capable of causing illness in a cat. Much like the aloe plant, the snake plant contains saponins which foam when exposed to bodily fluids. Dani on June 09, 2019: Thank you! Used indoors for its dense, lush foliage, this plant is poisonous to cats when ingested. The sleek, upright shape of the mother-in-law's tongue can complement an arrangement of softer, bushier plants. Such a response can ultimately cause a serious threat to life. The toxic principle in other plants may have a systemic effect and damage or alter the function of a cat’s organs, like the kidney or heart. However, if your cat has consumed a big amount of toxins, it might be dangerous. The snake plant aka Sansevieria trifasciata is also known as: By any name, this common house plant and member of the Agavaceae family is indeed toxic or poisonous to cats and dogs. The snake plant is a personal favorite for the house (following succulents, of course). Snake plants, often referred to as "mother-in-law's tongue," is well-known as one of the best plants for low light conditions, and for improving air quality - which has made it an extremely common houseplant. Whenever the animal eats any part of the snake plant, toxicity can occur. Houseplants are stylish and are great additions to your home or office. Although the effects of consuming snake plants are not severe, you should look for these signs of poisoning: If your cat starts showing any of the above symptoms, take her or him immediately to the veterinarian for checkup. Snake plants, often referred to as "mother-in-law's tongue," is well-known as one of the best plants for low light conditions, and for improving air quality - which has made it an extremely common houseplant. 11. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. What Makes the Snake Plant Poisonous? This will make the transition to a regular diet easier. The snake plant's relative in the genus Sansevieria, the viper's bowstring hemp, is also considered to be toxic to humans and pets. Unfortunately, they are toxic. Before we continue onto the houseplants we need to talk lilies. With early diagnosis and treatment, your cat should recover completely within a couple of days. Prayer Plant . Sure signs that your cat has gotten into something they shouldn't are vomiting and diarrhea. The list of harmful plants to cats is enormous; there are more than 700 species of flora that are dangerous, many of these are plants poisonous to cats. It would take me ages to list them all. In the last section of this post I’ll suggest some ways to prevent your cat from eating the plant. Required fields are marked *. As you may know, saponins are found in every part of the snake plant and skin irritation or stomach discomfort is often the first sign of poisoning . Additionally, the vet may administer activated charcoal, which will help absorb the poison. It’s unlikely poinsettia ingestion will lead to death. This will help the vet discover potential complications and risks. The only real way to protect your indoor cats from poisonous plants is to avoid them altogether. In short, a snake plant will not kill your cat. Additionally, the cats temperature, blood pressure and other vital functions will be measured. By any name, this common house plant and member of the Agavaceae family is indeed toxic or poisonous to cats and dogs. Snake Plant contains mild toxins in the form of saponins and organic acids. Your vet can evaluate the cat’s kidney function through the information gained with a urinalysis. Most symptoms can be considered mild and related to gastrointestinal upset. All parts of this plant are very bitter in taste, making it relatively non palatable. In humans, contact with the sap of the plant can cause minor skin irritation. https://plantcaretoday.com/carrion-flower-stapelia.html, https://plantcaretoday.com/sweet-box-plant.html, https://blog.gardeningknowhow.com/giveaways/other-giveaways/cat-lover-gift-idea-new-product-giveaway-that-will-have-you-feline-happy/. In the worst case scenario, these reactions may result in swelling of the tissues in the oral cavity and esophagus. Some plants, like types of ivy, might wiggle or move in a way a bit like that of a snake. There are over 700 plants that are toxic to cats and dogs. Never bring them into the house and it won’t be an issue. Below we've highlighted 7 of the most prominent succulents that are poisonous to cats and shouldn't be present in homes with cats. As mentioned before, Saponin is the chemical that makes snake plants toxic for pets. This list is very clear and helpful. 16 Common Plants poisonous to cats. Are snake plants poisonous to cats? Snake plant The snake plant is a personal favorite for the house (following succulents, of course). Such movements will stimulate the cat’s prey drive, and it will attack the plant. View this post on Instagram. According to PetMD, there are specific flowers and plants that poisonous and can harm your cat. It is one of the most notorious plants poisonous to cats, since it can cause acute kidney failure. Alternately, you can use chicken baby food. The compound Saponin is toxic for living beings and causes gastronomical reactions in humans and animals when ingested. Though most adult cats will avoid chewing on dangerous leaves and flowers, the pollen can drift down from bouquets and settle on flat surfaces. are mother inlaw or snake plant dangerous to cats. Typical symptoms include diarrhea, drooling, nausea, and vomiting. Although snake plants can cause trouble for your cat, most probably they won’t eat too much. Bring the cat’s full medical history to the clinic. These beautiful plants are actually considered poisonous to dogs and cats. Spider Plants and Cats. Many people enjoy keeping plants in their homes. Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) This fringy-fingered plant is often a cat favorite as those dangly babies invite a mischievous cat or kitten to play. The weeping fig is poisonous for pets, too—especially parakeets and cats. Cast Iron Plant (Bar Room Plant, Iron Plant, Variegated Cast Iron Plant) | Scientific Names: Aspidistra elatior | Family: Liliaceae Cat Brier (China Root, Ti-hu-ling, Shiny Leaf Smilax) | Scientific Names: Smilax glabra | Family: Liliaceae The Mother-in-Law’s Tongue is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to tropical West Africa from Nigeria east to the Congo. The range to which the poison can affect the cat could vary, and in some cases could result in death. These flowers and fruits are also toxic, and should be avoided for consumption. The short answer to the question, are snake plants poisonous to cats? Cats who have ingested this plant are expected to make a full recovery within a few days. If your dog or cat is exposed to it repeatedly, it can cause skin irritation, and berry ingestion can cause vomiting/diarrhea if eaten. They are drawn to them for various reasons. The snake plant releases sap, and this sap can irritate the skin. After a thorough evaluation, your vet may prescribe a couple of medications. Another good idea is to sprinkle some cinnamon in the soil. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), snake plant is a toxic houseplant for cats as well as dogs. These symptoms are mostly related to the gastrointestinal tract problems, as the plant is highly indigestible. This can be done by flushing the mouth with water to remove any bits of leaves from teeth and oral cavities. 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