Is Night Blooming Cereus Toxic to Cats?

The night blooming cereus, also known as the Queen of the Night, is a beautiful and unique plant that blooms only at night. Its large, fragrant flowers are a sight to behold and have earned it a place in many gardens and homes. However, if you are a cat owner, you may be wondering if this plant is safe for your furry friend.

Toxicity of Night Blooming Cereus

According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), the night blooming cereus is not toxic to cats. This means that if your cat were to come into contact with the plant or eat a small amount of it, they should not experience any harmful effects.

It is important to note, however, that the night blooming cereus is not completely without risk. The plant contains several chemical compounds that can cause mild to moderate irritation if ingested or if the sap comes into contact with the skin. These compounds include saponins, alkaloids, and oxalates.

Symptoms of Night Blooming Cereus Exposure in Cats

If your cat were to come into contact with the night blooming cereus or ingest a small amount, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Mild to moderate skin irritation
• Mild to moderate oral irritation

If your cat experiences any of these symptoms after coming into contact with the night blooming cereus, it is important to monitor them closely and contact your veterinarian if the symptoms persist or worsen.

Preventing Exposure to Night Blooming Cereus

The best way to prevent your cat from being exposed to the night blooming cereus is to keep the plant out of reach. If you have the plant in your garden, make sure that it is fenced off or otherwise inaccessible to your cat. If you keep the plant in your home, place it 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 important to be aware of other plants in your home or garden that may be toxic to cats. Some common plants that are toxic to cats include lilies, azaleas, and tulips. If you are unsure if a plant is toxic to your cat, it is better to err on the side of caution and keep it out of reach.

In Conclusion

The night blooming cereus is not toxic to cats, but it does contain chemical compounds that can cause mild to moderate irritation if ingested or if the sap comes into contact with the skin. If your cat experiences any symptoms after coming into contact with the plant, it is important to monitor them closely and contact your veterinarian if the symptoms persist or worsen.

As with any plant, it is important to keep the night blooming cereus out of reach of your cat to prevent any accidental exposure. If you are unsure if a plant is toxic to your cat, it is better to be safe and keep it out of reach.