Is Mother of Millions Toxic to Cats?

As pet owners, we always want what's best for our furry friends. This includes making sure that the plants in our homes and gardens are safe for them to be around. One plant that has been a cause for concern among cat owners is the Mother of Millions (Kalanchoe daigremontiana). Many have asked whether this plant is toxic to cats, and the answer is yes, it is.

What is Mother of Millions?

Mother of Millions is a succulent plant that is native to Madagascar. It is also known as Devil's Backbone, Alligator Plant, and Mexican Hat Plant. The plant produces small, plantlets along the edges of its leaves, which fall and root themselves in soil. This is how it got its name Mother of Millions.

Why is Mother of Millions Toxic to Cats?

The Mother of Millions plant is toxic to cats because it contains a cardiac glycoside called daigremontianin. This substance is similar to digitalis, which is a medication used to treat heart problems in humans. If a cat ingests any part of the plant, it can cause a range of symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. In severe cases, it can lead to cardiac arrest and death.

What are the Symptoms of Mother of Millions Toxicity in Cats?

If your cat has ingested any part of the Mother of Millions plant, there are certain symptoms you should watch out for. Some of these include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Abnormal heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Cardiac arrest

If your cat is showing any of these symptoms, you should take them to a veterinarian immediately.

What to Do if Your Cat Ingests Mother of Millions

If you suspect that your cat has ingested any part of the Mother of Millions plant, you should take the following steps:

1. Remove the plant from your cat's reach.
2. Check to see if your cat has any plant material in their mouth or on their fur.
3. Call your veterinarian and describe the symptoms your cat is exhibiting.
4. Follow your veterinarian's instructions for treatment.

It is important to note that inducing vomiting in your cat is not recommended unless advised by a veterinarian, as it can cause more harm than good.

Alternatives to Mother of Millions

If you are looking for succulent plants to decorate your home or garden that are safe for your cat, there are many alternatives to Mother of Millions. Some of these include:

• Hens and Chicks
• Burro's Tail
• Echeveria
• Jade Plant
• Zebra Plant

These plants are all non-toxic to cats and can be a great addition to your home or garden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mother of Millions plant is toxic to cats and can cause serious health problems if ingested. It is important to keep this plant out of reach of your cat and to be aware of the symptoms of toxicity. If you suspect that your cat has ingested any part of this plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. Remember, there are many non-toxic succulent plants that you can choose from as an alternative.