Is Bird of Paradise Toxic to Cats?

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae), is a common species of flowering plant known for its beautiful orange and blue flowers. It is popularly grown as an indoor plant for its ornamental value. The plant is native to South Africa but can now be found in many parts of the world. However, as a cat owner, you may wonder whether Bird of Paradise is safe for your feline friend. In this article, we will explore if Bird of Paradise is toxic to cats and what you should do if your pet accidentally ingests the plant.

Overview of Bird of Paradise Plant

Bird of Paradise plant is a tropical plant that requires bright light and high humidity to thrive. It is a slow-growing plant that can live up to 10 years if cared for properly. The plant grows up to 6 feet tall and produces large green leaves that resemble the feathers of a bird. The flowers of the plant are bright orange and blue, which gives it its name. Bird of Paradise plant is not only beautiful but is also known to purify the air, making it a popular indoor plant.

Is Bird of Paradise Toxic to Cats?

Unfortunately, Bird of Paradise plant is toxic to cats. The plant contains a toxin called glycoside, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite in cats if ingested. The toxin is primarily found in the leaves and flowers of the plant and is most potent when the plant is young. The toxin can also be found in the stem of the plant but is less concentrated.

How to Recognize if Your Cat Has Ingested Bird of Paradise

If you suspect that your cat has ingested Bird of Paradise, you should look out for the following symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Difficulty breathing
• Increased heart rate
• Tremors

These symptoms can occur within a few hours of ingestion and can last for several days. In severe cases, the toxin in Bird of Paradise can cause renal failure in cats, which can be life-threatening.

What to Do if Your Cat Ingests Bird of Paradise

If you suspect that your cat has ingested Bird of Paradise, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. The veterinarian may induce vomiting or perform gastric lavage to remove the toxins from your cat's stomach. They may also give your cat activated charcoal, which can bind to the toxin in the gut and prevent its absorption. If your cat is dehydrated due to vomiting or diarrhea, the veterinarian may administer fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

How to Prevent Your Cat from Ingesting Bird of Paradise

The best way to prevent your cat from ingesting Bird of Paradise is to keep the plant out of reach. Place the plant in a location where your cat cannot access it. You can also use deterrents such as citrus sprays or double-sided tape to discourage your cat from approaching the plant. If you have a curious cat that likes to nibble on plants, you may want to consider avoiding any toxic plants altogether. Instead, opt for safe plants such as cat grass or spider plants that are non-toxic to cats.

Conclusion

Bird of Paradise plant is a beautiful addition to any home, but it is unfortunately toxic to cats. The plant contains a toxin called glycoside, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite in cats if ingested. If your cat ingests Bird of Paradise, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. The best way to prevent your cat from ingesting Bird of Paradise is to keep the plant out of reach or avoid toxic plants altogether and opt for cat-friendly plants. By taking these precautions, you can ensure the safety of your feline friend and enjoy the beauty of your plants.