Is the money plant toxic to cats?
Money plant, also known as Devil’s Ivy or Pothos, is a popular houseplant known for its beautiful green and variegated leaves. While it is considered to be a relatively low-maintenance plant, many cat owners wonder if it is safe to have around their furry friends. The short answer is yes, money plant is toxic to cats if ingested.
Money plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause a range of symptoms in cats if they come into contact with the plant or ingest any part of it. These symptoms may include vomiting, drooling, difficulty swallowing, oral irritation, and in severe cases, choking or swelling of the mouth and throat. If you suspect that your cat has ingested money plant, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
While money plant is toxic to cats, there are steps you can take to prevent your furry friend from coming into contact with the plant. Keep your money plant out of reach of your cat, either by hanging it from a ceiling hook or placing it on a high shelf. You can also try spraying the plant with a bitter-tasting deterrent or covering the soil with rocks or mesh to prevent your cat from digging in it.
FAQs about money plant and cats:
1. Can cats get sick from eating money plant?
Yes, cats can get sick from eating money plant as it is toxic to them. It is best to keep the plant out of reach of your furry friends to prevent any accidental ingestion.
2. What should I do if my cat has ingested money plant?
If you suspect that your cat has ingested money plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can advise you on the next steps to take based on your cat’s symptoms.
3. Are all parts of the money plant toxic to cats?
Yes, all parts of the money plant, including the leaves, stems, and roots, contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can be toxic to cats if ingested.
4. What are the symptoms of money plant poisoning in cats?
Symptoms of money plant poisoning in cats may include vomiting, drooling, difficulty swallowing, oral irritation, and in severe cases, choking or swelling of the mouth and throat.
5. Can cats develop a sensitivity to money plant over time?
While some cats may have a higher sensitivity to money plant than others, all cats are at risk of developing symptoms of poisoning if they come into contact with the plant.
6. Is it safe to have money plant in the same room as my cat?
It is best to keep money plant out of reach of your cat or in a room that your cat does not have access to in order to prevent any potential poisoning incidents.
7. How can I prevent my cat from eating my money plant?
To prevent your cat from eating your money plant, you can keep the plant out of reach, use bitter-tasting deterrent sprays, or cover the soil with rocks or mesh to prevent digging.
8. Are there any alternative houseplants that are safe for cats?
There are many houseplants that are considered safe for cats, such as spider plants, African violets, and orchids. Be sure to research any plant before bringing it into your home.
9. Can indoor cats be at a higher risk of money plant poisoning?
Indoor cats may be at a higher risk of money plant poisoning if they have access to the plant and are more likely to come into contact with it than outdoor cats.
10. How quickly do symptoms of money plant poisoning in cats appear?
Symptoms of money plant poisoning in cats can appear within a few hours of ingestion, but may vary depending on the amount of plant eaten and your cat’s sensitivity.
11. Can money plant poisoning in cats be fatal?
While most cases of money plant poisoning in cats are not fatal, it is still important to seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your cat has ingested the plant to prevent any serious complications.
12. Are there any safe alternatives to money plant for cat-friendly homes?
Yes, there are many cat-safe plants that you can choose from to decorate your home, such as cat grass, catnip, and spider plants. Be sure to research the specific plant to ensure it is safe for your furry friend.