Are Chinese Evergreens Toxic to Cats? What You Need to Know
Aglaonema, or Chinese evergreens, are popular houseplants that are known for their lush green leaves with different colored spots. But is this tropical plant safe for cats to be around? Unfortunately, Chinese evergreens are poisonous to cats and can make them very sick if they eat them.
You will learn everything you need to know about Chinese evergreens and cat safety in this article.
Why Chinese evergreens are poisonous to cats
Identifying signs of poisoning in cats
Safe alternatives to Chinese evergreens
Precautions for cat owners
Frequently asked questions
Understanding the Toxicity
Chinese evergreens contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If ingested by cats, these crystals can cause significant oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, the throat and mouth can swell up, making it hard for the cat to breathe.
The ASPCA says that cats should not eat any part of the Chinese evergreen plant, not even the leaves, stems, or roots. Even small nibbles can result in poisoning symptoms.
Spotting the Symptoms
If you suspect your cat has ingested part of a Chinese evergreen, watch for these common signs of poisoning:
Pawing at the mouth
Excessive drooling
Difficulty eating or swallowing
Vomiting
Decreased appetite
Swollen mouth or throat
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. Timely treatment is crucial for a full recovery.
Exploring Safe Alternatives
Chinese evergreens are too dangerous for cat owners, but there are many other safe, non-toxic houseplants you could choose from. such as .
Spider plants
Prayer plants
Boston ferns
African violets
Orchids
Ponytail palms
Parlor palms
Peperomias
The ASPCA has an extensive list of cat-safe plants that are non-toxic alternatives to poisonous varieties like the Chinese evergreen. Do your research before bringing a new plant home.
Taking Proper Precautions
If you already have a Chinese evergreen plant, take these precautions to protect your curious cat:
Place it out of reach of your cat on a high shelf or plant stand.
Consider displaying it in a terrarium or other enclosed container.
Keep it in a room that your cat does not access, like a spare bedroom.
Use bitter apple sprays or other deterrents to discourage nibbling.
Redirect your cat’s plant-chewing urges with cat grass.
Supervise your cat closely whenever the Chinese evergreen is accessible to prevent ingestion accidents. Rehome the plant if your cat is obsessed with trying to eat it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Chinese evergreens and cats:
Are Chinese evergreens fatal to cats?
In most cases, cats will recover fully with prompt veterinary treatment. However, without care, Chinese evergreen poisoning can potentially be fatal depending on the amount ingested.
What if my cat just licks or chews the leaves?
Even licking or chewing on the leaves can cause oral irritation, drooling, and other symptoms. All parts of the plant should be kept away from cats.
Is it okay if I hang my Chinese evergreen out of reach?
Hanging the plant or placing it somewhere up high is safer but not completely foolproof. Some clever cats may still find ways to access it, so supervision is still required.
Are other pets also at risk?
Yes, Chinese evergreens are toxic to dogs as well. Keep them away from all household pets.
What should I do if I think my cat ate some?
Contact your vet or an animal poison control hotline right away if ingestion is suspected. prompt treatment improves the chances of recovery.
Can I grow pet-safe plants instead?
Absolutely! There are many non-toxic houseplants and herbs you can grow that are perfectly safe for curious cats.
The Bottom Line
Chinese evergreens are toxic to cats and can lead to very serious poisoning symptoms. While beautiful, they pose too much of a risk in a home with cats. If you decide to keep them, take strict precautions to prevent ingestion. But the safest choice is to choose alternative plants that are non-toxic for cats. Your furry friend’s health and safety should always come first.
No, Chinese Evergreen plants (Aglaonema) are not safe for cats. They contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to cats and can cause oral irritation, pain, swelling of the mouth, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing, according to the ASPCA.
Is a Chinese Evergreen poisonous?
Chinese Evergreen is Toxic To Humans. Calcium oxalate crystals in Chinese Evergreen cause irritation upon contact. Keep out of reach from children and pets to prevent toxic exposure.
3 Gal. Evergreen Italian Cypress Tree. (3.9 / 28) …
3 Gal. Evergreen Leyland Cypress Trees. (3 / 2) …
3 Gal. White Blooms Evergreen Little Gem Magnolia Tree. …
3 Gal. White Blooms Evergreen Southern Magnolia Tree.
What is the most toxic house plant for cats?
Lilies. Beautiful though they may be, lilies are one of the most toxic house plants for cats.
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Preventing Chinese Evergreen Toxicity in Cats
Preventing your feline friend from munching on your Chinese Evergreen is a task that requires a bit of creativity, but dont worry, weve got you covered.
First off, consider the placement of your plant. Cats are nimble creatures, but theyre not exactly Spiderman. Putting your Chinese Evergreen in a spot that your cat doesn’t go to often or can’t get to easily can make all the difference.
Training and Distractions
Training your cat to stay away from your plants can be a bit like teaching a toddler to avoid candy, but its not impossible. A quick spray of water when your cat approaches the Chinese Evergreen can send a clear message.
Providing alternative safe plants, like pet-friendly grass, can also distract your cat from your Chinese Evergreen. Its like offering a salad when theyre eyeing your steak.
If youre growing these plants outdoors, consider using dry deterrents. Theyre like the “Keep Out” signs of the plant world.
Lastly, remember that a bored cat is a plant-chewing cat. Playing with your cat more can keep them from getting bored and away from your precious Chinese Evergreen.
In the end, its all about being proactive and creative in your approach. Your cat and your Chinese Evergreen can coexist, it just takes a bit of effort and ingenuity.
Is Aglaonema Toxic To Cats? – The Plant Enthusiast
FAQ
Are Chinese evergreens safe for cats?
No, Chinese Evergreen plants (Aglaonema) are not safe for cats. The ASPCA says they contain calcium oxalate crystals that don’t dissolve in water. These crystals are poisonous to cats and can cause mouth sores, pain, swelling, excessive drooling, vomiting, and trouble swallowing.
Is a Chinese Evergreen poisonous?
Chinese Evergreen is Toxic To Humans. Calcium oxalate crystals in Chinese Evergreen cause irritation upon contact. Keep out of reach from children and pets to prevent toxic exposure.
Lilies. Beautiful though they may be, lilies are one of the most toxic house plants for cats.
Is Chinese evergreen poisonous to cats?
Chinese evergreen is toxic to cats and dogs. The toxicity is due to insoluble calcium oxalate, which causes “oral irritation, pain, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting (not horses), and difficulty swallowing” according to the ASPCA.
Can cats eat Chinese Evergreens?
Chinese evergreens are indeed toxic to cats. The plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause symptoms such as drooling, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and oral irritation if ingested by cats. If cats eat too many Chinese evergreens, their mouths and throats can swell up, making it hard for them to breathe.
Can cats be allergic to Chinese Evergreens?
Answer: While cats can develop allergies to certain plants, such as grasses or trees, allergies to Chinese evergreens specifically are rare. If your cat has allergic reactions after being around Chinese evergreens, you should take them to the vet for more testing. 10.
What plants are safe for cats?
Plants such as spider plants, Boston ferns, and African violets are all safe options for cat owners who want to add some greenery to their homes without putting their pets at risk. 3.
Is Aglaonema poisonous to cats?
The Aglaonema plant, also known as Chinese Evergreen, is poisonous to cats. Its toxicity is due to insoluble calcium oxalate, which causes “oral irritation, pain, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting (not in horses), and difficulty swallowing” according to the ASPCA.
Are indoor plants safe for cats?
Answer: To create a pet-friendly indoor garden that is safe for cats, pet owners can choose non-toxic plants, place plants out of reach of their pets, use hanging planters, and provide alternative outlets for their cats ‘ natural behaviors, such as scratching posts and cat grass.
