If you’re a cat lover, giving your feline friend a few plants to hide in and scratch is a great way to show her some love. Not all plants are safe for cats, though, so it’s important to choose wisely. Here are a few tips on how to pick the perfect cat-friendly plants for your home.
Cat-Friendly Flowers and Plants
As any cat owner knows, our feline friends can be curious creatures. For many cats, the sights and smells of houseplants are simply too tempting to resist.
While nibbling on a leaf here and there may not seem like a big deal, some plants can actually be toxic to cats.
Consuming even a small amount of some plants can cause symptoms like stomach upset, diarrhea, vomiting, and even kidney failure.
As a result, it’s important to be aware of which plants are safe for cats and which ones should be avoided.
Some common cat-friendly plants include ivy, spider plant, and catnip. On the other hand, plants like lilies, aloe vera, and tulips can be dangerous for cats and should be kept out of reach.
By taking the time to research which plants are safe for your feline friend, you can help create a happy and healthy home for both you and your cat.
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5 Ways to Keep Both Cats and Houseplants
Now that you know which plants are safe for cats, it’s time to learn how to keep both your feline friend and your houseplants safe.
Here are a few tips:
1. Keep poisonous plants out of reach: If you have any plants that are poisonous to cats, make sure they’re kept out of reach. This may mean keeping them on a high shelf or in a room that your cat doesn’t have access to.
2. Choose cat-friendly plants: When selecting new plants for your home, choose ones that are known to be safe for cats. This way, you can avoid any potential problems down the road.
3. Monitor your cat’s behavior: If you notice your cat nibbling on a plant, keep a close eye on her. Some cats may not have any reaction to certain plants, while others may become sick. If you see any signs of illness, such as vomiting or diarrhea, take your cat to the vet right away.
4. Keep plants clean: In addition to being toxic, some plants can also harbor harmful bacteria. To help keep your cat safe, make sure to wash your hands after handling any potentially dangerous plants. You should also clean the leaves of any plants that your cat has been chewing on.
5. Consider alternatives: If you’re concerned about keeping both cats and houseplants safe, there are always alternative options. For example, you could get a cat tree or scratching post instead of giving your feline friend access to plants. You could also try growing catnip or another type of cat-friendly plant in a pot that can be kept out of reach.
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Safe Plants and Flowers
While there are some plants that are poisonous to cats, there are many others that are perfectly safe.
Here is a list of some common cat-friendly plants:
- Ivy
- Spider plant
- Catnip
- Oat grass
- Wheatgrass
- Chamomile
- Parsley
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Lavender
Toxic Plants and Flowers
There are also many common plants that are poisonous to cats. Some of these include:
- Lilies
- Aloe vera
- Tulips
- Azaleas
- Cyclamen
- Dieffenbachia
- Philodendron
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ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Lists of Safe and Unsafe Plants for Pets
The ASPCA has a great resource that lists common house and yard plants that are safe for pets, as well as those that are poisonous.
You can view the list here: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants
PetMD: Plant Directory
PetMD also has a helpful plant directory that allows you to search for safe plants by type.
By following these simple tips, you can help create a safe and healthy environment for both your cat and your houseplants.
FAQs Regarding Cats and Plants
Do all cats like to eat plants?
No, not all cats are interested in eating plants. However, some cats may chew on plants out of curiosity or because they enjoy the taste. If you notice your cat nibbling on a plant, it’s best to monitor her closely to make sure she doesn’t consume any harmful vegetation.
What should I do if my cat eats a poisonous plant?
If you think your cat has eaten a poisonous plant, the first step is to call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. They will be able to advise you on what steps to take next. In some cases, you may need to bring your cat in for treatment.
Can I grow safe plants around my cat’s litter box?
Yes, you can grow safe plants around your cat’s litter box. Just be sure to choose plants that are known to be safe for cats and monitor your feline friend closely to make sure she doesn’t eat any of the vegetation.
Is it safe to have plants in my cat’s bedroom?
Yes, it is safe to have plants in your cat’s bedroom as long as they are not poisonous to cats. If you’re concerned about your feline friend eating the plants, you could always try growing catnip or another type of safe, cat-friendly plant in a pot that can be kept out of reach.
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