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Plants Toxic to Cats

There are many plants toxic to cats...

...however a cat's natural instinct will usually prevent it from chewing on them, occasionally though a cat may sample a toxic leaf or stem.

Cats eat grass and vegetation to provide themselves with vitamins and minerals, and to rid themselves of furballs. A cat with access to the outdoors is able to choose its own leafage, and because of its naturally fastidious character, will seldom make a mistake and eat plants toxic to cats.

It is a good idea to plant a small patch of your garden with catnip (cat mint), available in pots and seeds from garden suppliers, your cat will then have even less need to nibble on growth likely to be poisonous.

If you have plants in your garden that you know are toxic to cats, you may want to take measures to keep your cat from them. Pepper, lightly sprayed on the leaves and stems, will not harm the plant but your cat will be put off from approaching them.

Indoor Cats and Toxic Plants.

Cats that are confined indoors have less choice of greenery to nibble, so are more likely to be tempted to sample something they shouldn't than their free roaming cousins.

It makes sense therefore, to ensure catnip is always available to your indoor cat. Keep all houseplants out of reach of your cat, unless you are certain they are not plants toxic to cats. High shelves are good, hanging baskets better, but keep in mind that cats are expert climbers. Spraying the plant with a citrus scented, or mild vinegar, solution, will deter your feline, or place halves of lemons/oranges in the plant pot.

If you use pesticides or any chemicals on your houseplants (toxic or not) ensure that they are safe to use and won't harm your pet.

As stated above, although there are many plants that are toxic to cats, cases of poisoning purely through a pet eating plants are rare, and good common sense precautions should help keep your cat safe.

If you suspect that your cat has swallowed a piece of a toxic plant contact your veterinarian immediately, do not wait for symptoms to show. If you can give your vet both the plants common, and scientific name. Acting quickly can be vital.

Here is a list of outdoor and house plants that could prove poisonous to cats > List of plants that could poison your cat