Is Jerusalem Cherry Toxic to Cats?

Caring for a cat entails not just feeding it well and giving it the proper grooming it needs, but also ensuring that the environment it lives in is safe and secure. This means making sure that the plants you have in your home are not toxic to your feline friend.

One of the most common indoor plants that many homeowners have is the Jerusalem cherry, which is known for its beautiful red berries that are often used as decorations. But, is it safe for cats to be around this plant? Let's take a closer look.

What is Jerusalem Cherry?

Jerusalem cherry (Solanum pseudocapsicum) is a plant species that is part of the nightshade family Solanaceae. It has small white flowers that bloom in clusters and produces small bright red or orange berries that resemble cherries. The plant is native to South and Central America and is often grown as an ornamental plant in North America and Europe.

Is Jerusalem Cherry Toxic to Cats?

Yes, Jerusalem cherry is toxic to cats. The plant contains solanine, a toxic alkaloid that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, weakness, seizures, and even death in cats. Solanine is found in all parts of the plant, but the berries are the most toxic. A cat that ingests the berries can experience drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and difficulty breathing.

It is important to note that different cats may react differently to solanine poisoning. Some may exhibit mild symptoms while others may experience severe reactions. Kittens and senior cats are especially at risk of developing serious complications from ingesting Jerusalem cherry.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe from Jerusalem Cherry

If you have Jerusalem cherry in your home, it is crucial to keep it out of your cat's reach. Make sure to keep the plant in a location that your cat cannot access, such as on a high shelf or in a room that your cat does not have access to. It is also a good idea to discourage your cat from nibbling on any plants by providing it with plenty of cat-friendly toys and treats to keep it occupied.

If you suspect that your cat has ingested Jerusalem cherry, it is important to seek emergency veterinary care immediately. The veterinarian may need to provide supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and medications to help control the cat's symptoms. The earlier the treatment is provided, the better the chance of a full recovery for your feline companion.

Alternatives to Jerusalem Cherry

If you love the look of Jerusalem cherry and would still like to have indoor plants, there are plenty of cat-friendly alternatives that you can choose from. Some of the best options include:

• Spider plants
• Blue Echeveria
• African violets
• Boston ferns
• Parlor Palms

There are many other cat-friendly houseplants to choose from. Be sure to do your research before selecting any new indoor plants to ensure that they are safe for your furry friend.

Conclusion

Jerusalem cherry is a beautiful plant but it is not worth risking the life of your beloved feline companion. The plant contains substances that are toxic to cats and can cause severe reactions. It is therefore important to keep this plant out of your cat's reach and consider cat-friendly houseplants as alternatives. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so do your research before bringing any new plants into your home.