An ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center study found that calls about succulent toxicity in pets increased by 40% between 2015 and 2020.1
But don’t panic and toss out your entire collection just yet – with some knowledge, you can keep your plants and kitties safe.
Here are the six ways your beloved succulents could secretly harm your furry friends, and learn how to create a pet-friendly indoor garden.
1. Toxic Sap Triggers Tummy Troubles
Certain succulents, like Euphorbia, ooze a milky sap when damaged, which can wreak havoc on your cat’s digestive system. This irritating latex can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and discomfort for your feline friend. (ref)
In severe cases, it may even lead to dehydration and require a trip to the vet.
So, before bringing home that Pencil Cactus, think twice about the potential risks. Your cat’s tummy will thank you for steering clear of these sappy succulents.
2. Poisonous Leaves Lead to Lethargy
Succulents like Kalanchoe and Jade Plant contain bufadienolides and saponins in their leaves that spell trouble if ingested by your curious cat. (ref) These toxic compounds can cause lethargy, loss of appetite, and a general sense of malaise in your usually energetic kitty.
Look for any unusual behavior or signs of illness if you suspect your cat has been nibbling on these poisonous plants.
Early intervention can make all the difference in getting your feline back to their playful self.
3. Spiky Spines Spell Skin Irritation
While not all succulents are toxic if eaten, some species, like cacti, pose a different danger with their sharp spines. These prickly protrusions can easily lodge in your cat’s skin, causing irritation, inflammation, and discomfort.
Imagine your poor kitty trying to groom themselves, only with a mouthful of painful spines. It’s a scenario no cat lover wants to witness.
Opt for spineless succulents to keep your feline’s skin and fur-free from irritation.
4. Alkaloid-Laden Varieties Cause Vomiting
Some succulents, like Purdy’s Stonecrop, contain piperidine alkaloids that can cause gastrointestinal distress in cats. (ref) If your kitty decides to take a bite out of these plants, they may experience vomiting, drooling, and a general feeling of nausea.
While not all alkaloid-containing succulents are lethal, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
Stick to non-toxic varieties to ensure your cat’s well-being and avoid unpleasant cleanup duties.
5. Drooling & Diarrhea from Sneaky Senecio
The Senecio genus, which includes the popular String of Pearls, can cause some seriously unpleasant symptoms if ingested by your feline friend. (ref) Drooling, diarrhea, and listlessness are potential consequences of your cat’s curiosity.
Don’t let the beady beauty of these trailing succulents fool you.
Keep them out of your cat’s reach to prevent unwanted gastrointestinal issues or discomfort.
6. Inappetence Induced by Ingestion
Many toxic succulents, such as Jade Plant and Aloe Vera, can cause a loss of appetite in cats if consumed. This inappetence can quickly lead to weight loss, dehydration, and a host of other health issues if left unchecked.
Keep a close eye on your cat’s eating habits, especially if you suspect they may have nibbled on a toxic succulent.
If their appetite doesn’t return to normal within a day or two, it’s time to seek veterinary care.
By familiarizing yourself with the potential risks and steering clear of toxic varieties, you can create a stylish and safe home for your beloved cats.
Remember, knowledge is power regarding your feline’s well-being – and a little caution goes a long way.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.