Is Caeroba Toxic to Cats?

Cats are beloved pets and members of countless families worldwide. Therefore, their owners need to ensure their fluffy companions are safe and healthy. You probably heard of the plant called caeroba and may be worried about its potential toxicity to cats. Is caeroba toxic to cats?

What is Caeroba?

Caeroba is a small perennial shrub that originates from the tropical forests of Central and South America. Its scientific name is Calathea orbifolia, and it is commonly known as "round-leaved calathea." Caeroba is popular among indoor plant enthusiasts as it has large, ornamental leaves with green and silver stripes.

The Concern about Caeroba and Cats

Many pet owners are concerned if their plants are safe around their furry friends. Caeroba has been reported to cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs and cats, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Other symptoms observed in pets after ingestion of Calathea orbifolia include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

While there are no confirmed cases of Caeroba toxicity in cats, it is essential to take precautions if you have this plant in your home to protect your feline friends.

The Toxic Compounds in Caeroba

The toxic compounds found in Caeroba plants are insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. These needle-like crystals have sharp edges that can cause injuries and pierce cat's sensitive mouth tissues when ingested. Calcium oxalate crystals are irritants that cause inflammation, swelling, and pain in the animal's mouth and throat. This reaction leads to excessive drooling, gagging, and retching.

Moreover, calcium oxalate crystals can cause damage to the kidney tissue if they enter the bloodstream, leading to the formation of renal stones. In severe cases, renal failure can occur. The ingestion of large amounts of Caeroba should be considered an emergency and requires appropriate veterinary care.

Tips to Keep Your Cats Safe from Caeroba

As responsible pet owners, it is our responsibility to keep our pets safe and protect them from potential hazards. Here are some tips to keep your cats safe from Caeroba:

• Avoid growing Caeroba plants in your home if you have cats.
• If you want to keep Caeroba plants, consider keeping them in an area that is inaccessible to your feline friends.
• If you notice signs of Caeroba poisoning in your cat (drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain), contact your veterinarian immediately for professional advice and treatment.
• Regularly inspect your houseplants, including Caeroba, to ensure that no plant leaves and branches have fallen and are within your cat's reach. It is better to be safe than sorry.
• If you must handle Caeroba plants, use gloves to avoid hand contact with the plant leaves.

Conclusion

Cats are curious animals that love to explore their surroundings, including plants. Caeroba plants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that are toxic to cats when ingested. While there are no reported cases of Caeroba toxicity in cats, it is essential to take precautions to protect your treasured feline friend. By avoiding growing Caeroba plants at home or securing them in a location that your cat can not access, you can keep your pet safe. If you suspect your cat has ingested Caeroba or is exhibiting signs of poisoning, contact your veterinarian immediately