Is it harmful to cats to consume Kalanchoe plants?
Warning: Common Houseplants Harmful to Cats
Many popular houseplants can pose a threat to our feline friends, with Kalanchoe being one of them. This genus of flowering plants, native to Madagascar and tropical Africa, contains cardiac glycosides called bufadienolides that can cause gastrointestinal distress and potentially serious heart problems if ingested.
Known by names such as the "Mother-in-Law's Tongue" or "Devil's Backbone" due to its sharp leaves, Kalanchoes are characterized by their succulent leaves and colourful flowers, which come in a variety of hues, including pink, red, yellow, and white.
If your cat ingests Kalanchoe, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Symptoms of toxicity may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal irritation, lethargy, and abnormal heart rhythm. In extreme cases, Kalanchoe toxicity can lead to kidney failure, liver failure, heart arrhythmia, seizures, and even tremors.
Other toxic houseplants to cats include Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen), Alocasia, Aloe Vera, Amaryllis, Asparagus Fern, Azalea, Begonia, Bird of Paradise, Caladium, Carnations, Chrysanthemum, Cyclamen, Dieffenbachia, Dracaena (including Corn Plant), Euphorbia, Ficus (Fig), Gardenia, Hellebore, Ivy, Jade (Crassula), Lavender, Lemon Trees, Lily (Peace Lily and Easter Lily), Lime Trees, Marijuana, Mint, Mistletoe, Monstera, Narcissus (Daffodils, Jonquils), Oregano, and various species of palms.
For cat owners who are also plant lovers, it is advisable to keep a list of plants that are dangerous to kitties and to avoid keeping these plants at home or to keep them out of reach. Alternatively, there are safer, pet-friendly houseplants such as spider plants, cat grass, peperomia, and certain palms that provide greenery without risk to cats.
In summary, Kalanchoe is indeed toxic to cats, along with many other popular houseplants. Immediate veterinary intervention is recommended if ingestion occurs. By being aware of these potential hazards, cat owners can help ensure a safer environment for their pets.
- To prevent potential harm to cats, avoid keeping popular houseplants like Kalanchoe, which are toxic, at home or keep them out of reach.
- Other harmful houseplants to cats include Aglaonema, Alocasia, Aloe Vera, Amaryllis, Asparagus Fern, Azalea, Begonia, Bird of Paradise, Caladium, Carnations, Chrysanthemum, Cyclamen, Dieffenbachia, Dracaena, Euphorbia, Ficus, Gardenia, Hellebore, Ivy, Jade, Lavender, Lemon Trees, Lily, Lime Trees, Marijuana, Mint, Mistletoe, Monstera, Narcissus, Oregano, and various species of palms.
- For cat owners who are also lovers of plants, it's advisable to have a list of pet-friendly houseplants like spider plants, cat grass, peperomia, and certain palms to ensure a safe home-and-garden lifestyle for both cats and themselves.
- By being mindful of potentially toxic houseplants and their impact on pets, cat owners can create a beautiful, pet-friendly decor in their homes, enhancing their lifestyle without posing risks to their beloved companions.
