Many of us love our feline companions and would never want to risk doing anything that could put them in harm’s way. But unfortunately, many people are unaware of just how many plants can pose a serious health threat. To help you keep your kitty safe, this list covers 18 common plants that could harm your cat.
Lilies
Lilies are beautiful flowers that make a popular gift. But did you know that they’re also extremely toxic to cats? Even a small amount can lead to kidney failure and potentially death. If you think your cat may have ingested part of a lily and is experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite, you should take them to a vet immediately.
Sago Palm
Sago palms contain cycasin, which is known to be toxic to cats and can cause liver failure. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, the seeds are the most toxic, but any part of the plant can seriously damage your kitty’s health. If your cat has been exposed, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible.
Tulips
While tulip flowers are not very dangerous to cats, their bulbs contain toxins that can cause nausea, irritation, and drooling. If ingested, they can also cause cardiac abnormalities, depression, and diarrhea. You should contact your vet right away if your kitty ingests any part of a tulip bulb.
Azaleas
Azaleas are beautiful flowers with a deadly secret. They contain grayanotoxins, which can disrupt cellular function and cause diarrhea, vomiting, and weakness. In the worst cases, this can be lethal to your cat. Therefore, you should do your best to keep your kitty away from azaleas and contact your vet if they have ingested any part of the plant.
Oleander
Oleander is another beautiful flower known for its toxicity. If your cat eats any part of this plant, it can affect their heart, cause severe digestive issues, and potentially even lead to death. If your cat is experiencing diarrhea, abdominal pain, or drooling and you think they may have eaten the plant, take them to a vet immediately.
Daffodils
Daffodils are common, unassuming flowers that can be surprisingly dangerous to cats. They contain lycorine, which can cause vomiting, and other alkaloids that can cause convulsions, low blood pressure, and gastrointestinal issues. The bulbs are the most toxic part, so do your best to keep your kitty out of your way if you’re planting them.
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Dieffenbachia, also known as “dumb cane,” contains oxalates, which can cause severe burning and oral irritation. This will often lead to symptoms such as excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. If your cat has been around dumb cane and is experiencing any of these symptoms, seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
Autumn Crocus
The autumn crocus contains a toxin called colchicine, which can lead to symptoms such as severe vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, and even liver and kidney damage. Get in touch with your vet as quickly as you can if your kitty is experiencing any of these issues.
Castor Bean (Ricinus communis)
According to the ASPCA, even a small amount of a castor bean, also known as Ricinus communis, can be lethal to a cat. This is because they contain ricin, which is a highly toxic compound that can lead to severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and organ failure. Symptoms can progress soon after ingestion, so swift veterinary intervention is crucial.
Foxglove
Foxglove is known to contain cardiac glycosides, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure, and even death. Even a tiny amount can be very toxic to your cat, so you should take them to the vet immediately if they display any symptoms of ingestion.
Peace Lily
Peace lilies may be peaceful by name, but they can be surprisingly violent in nature. They contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause symptoms such as oral irritation, pain, swelling of the mouth, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. While ingestion is not usually fatal, it can cause significant discomfort that should be treated by a vet.
Cyclamen
Cyclamen, also known as sowbread, is toxic to several types of animals, including cats. In the worst cases, the saponins within the plant can lead to fatal cardiac issues, so it’s important to take your cat to the vet as soon as possible if they’ve ingested it. Symptoms include vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea.
Dracaena (Corn Plant)
Dracaena, commonly known as corn plant, is another plant that contains saponins. So like cyclamen, it can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you think your cat has eaten any part of the plant, you should monitor them for any behavioral changes and take them to the vet if they develop any symptoms.
Jade Plant
Jade plants are popular household succulents, so you may be concerned about seeing them on this list. Thankfully, ingestion is not usually fatal to cats, but you should still seek veterinary attention as soon as possible if your cat has eaten any part of the plant. Common symptoms include vomiting and lethargy.
Marijuana (Cannabis)
As you may imagine, exposing your cat to marijuana is not a good idea. THC is toxic to cats and can cause symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, bradycardia, and uncoordinated movements. As this plant is becoming more widely available in America, it’s important to take safety precautions and be especially careful around your pets.
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas may be beautiful, but they can pose a risk to your cat. According to the ASPCA, while hydrangea poisoning is rare and usually mild, it can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and bloody diarrhea. If your cat is experiencing any of these issues, it’s best to take them to a vet.
Snake Plant
The snake plant is another popular indoor plant that can be dangerous to felines. They contain saponins, which can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you have a snake plant in your home and your cat is exhibiting these symptoms, seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
Wisteria
The seeds and pods of wisteria are especially toxic to cats, causing nervous system damage and dehydration. If your cat has been exposed to this plant and is experiencing any behavioral or health changes, it’s a good idea to take them to a vet as quickly as you can.
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