Toxic indoor plants for cats

Indoor plants don’t just make your home greener and cosier, they can also pose a risk to your pet. Cats in particular are known for their curiosity, which can be dangerous if you’ve got toxic plants at home. In this blog you’ll find out how to recognise toxic plants and what to do if poisoning occurs. Of course, we’ll also share which plants are safe for your cat!

Not every indoor plant is suitable if you have cats. Some species contain substances that can be harmful if your cat eats them, licks them or even comes into contact with them. Unfortunately, these substances aren’t always visible – a beautiful, innocent looking plant might still be toxic.

There are three categories:

• Mildly toxic: slight irritation or stomach issues

• Moderately toxic: vomiting, diarrhoea, swelling

• Severely toxic: seizures, breathing problems, risk of death

Has your cat taken a bite of a toxic plant? You might notice the following symptoms:

• Vomiting or diarrhoea

• Excessive drooling

• Swelling in the mouth or throat

• Stomach pain or lethargy

• Pale tongue or gums

• Difficulty breathing

• Seizures

Note: these symptoms can also have other causes. When in doubt, always contact your vet.

Has your cat nibbled on a toxic plant? Follow these steps:

1. Remove the plant straight away or put it out of reach

2. Write down the plant name or take a photo – this helps the vet

3. Call your vet immediately, even if your cat doesn’t show symptoms yet

4. In emergencies the vet can contact the National Poisons Information Centre for advice

Don’t wait and see. Acting quickly can make all the difference.

There are dozens of indoor plants that are toxic to cats. Here are five well known culprits:

• Euphorbia

• Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)

• Philodendron

• Alocasia (Elephant ear)

• Dieffenbachia

Note: this isn’t a complete list. Not sure about a plant? Get in touch with us our check PDSA.

Luckily, there are also plenty of plants that are considered safe for cats! That means non toxic, or only slightly irritating if eaten in very large amounts. A few safe indoor plants include:

• Cat grass (Cyperus Zumula)

• Spider plant (Chlorophytum)

• Ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)

• Areca palm (Dypsis lutescens)

• Lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus)

Don’t want to take any risks at all? Then a closed terrarium is the perfect alternative. A mini ecosystem in a sealed glass container, completely out of reach for your cat.

Indoor plants and pets can go together just fine, as long as you know which plants you bring into your home. If you know which ones are safe – and which ones are not – you can enjoy greenery indoors without worry.

Not sure about a specific plant? Always double check a reliable source such as PDSA.