6 Decorative Plants That are Toxic for Cats
Decorative plants are very common to have these days. The inner space vibrates with a bright and cheerful aura with these plants. The air quality also improves as you breathe oxygen-enriched air. However, certain decorative plants may prove to be hazardous to your cats. If you have cats sauntering in the house, then it is necessary to be wary of these decorative plants that are dangerous for cats.
Here are some popular decorative plants that are dangerous for cats:
1. Peace lilies
These are some of the most common decorative plants that are dangerous for cats. These attractive house plants have dark leaves and beautiful white flowers. They are greatly preferred by everyone since they are low on maintenance. But these flowers have calcium oxalates. If consumed by cats, they can cause vomiting, irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, and excessive drooling. In severe cases, it may even cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing. Although they are safe to touch, they are very dangerous when ingested.
2. Snake plants
Snake plants can be kept in rooms that receive poor light. The Saponins present in the leaves improve air quality and are non-toxic for humans. But they are deadly for your cats and can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested.
3. Aloe vera plants
These plants are preferred because of their excellent medicinal properties and therapeutic value of the gel present in thick, succulent-like leaves. The leaves grow upwards from a rosette-like base and are toxic to cats as they contain Saponins and anthraquinones. These elements can trigger diarrhea, lethargy, and vomiting if ingested by your pet cat.
4. Dieffenbachias
You can spruce up your home décor with these eye-catching houseplants. They have spectacular tropical foliage and low-maintenance needs. But if ingested by your cat, it is bound to have oral irritation, swelling, vomiting, and difficulty in swallowing and breathing.
5. Pothos
Pothos is an alluring addition to your inner space due to its ease of care, affordable cost, and appealing drape. The green leaves contain insoluble calcium oxalates. Pothos is safe to touch, but if ingested, it can make your cat experience symptoms such as oral swelling and vomiting.
6. English ivy
This decorative plant has a delicate and attractive display because of its small, pointed leaves grown in hanging planters. But it can be very dangerous for cats as English ivy leaves contain Triterpenoid saponins. When swallowed, it can cause symptoms, including swelling in the throat, weakness, vomiting, rash, excessive drooling, dermatitis, and ataxia.
It is important to conduct thorough research to find out the decorative plants that are dangerous for cats. This will only ensure the safety of your feline friends.