Is Octopus Tree Toxic to Cats?

Octopus tree, also known as Schefflera arboricola, is a popular houseplant that can add a touch of greenery to any room. However, if you are a cat owner, you may be wondering if this plant is safe for your furry friend to be around. In this article, we will explore the potential risks the octopus tree poses to cats and what precautions you can take to keep your pet safe.

What is Octopus Tree?

Octopus tree is a tropical plant native to Taiwan and southern China but is now grown worldwide as a houseplant. The plant features glossy leaves that grow in a circular pattern, resembling the arms of an octopus, hence the name. The octopus tree is easy to care for and can grow up to ten feet tall when grown outdoors.

Is Octopus Tree Poisonous to Cats?

The answer to this question is both yes and no. While the octopus tree is not considered toxic to cats, it did receive a toxicity rating of three out of four from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) due to its sap. The plant sap contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation to the mouth and throat if ingested by cats or other animals. If your cat chews on the plant or ingests its sap, it may experience symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, and swelling of the mouth and throat. In severe cases, your cat may have difficulty breathing or swallowing, which can be life-threatening.

What Precautions Can You Take to Keep Your Cat Safe?

Even though the octopus tree is not toxic to cats, it's still essential to take precautions to prevent your furry friend from coming into contact with its sap. Here are some ways you can keep your cat safe:

• Place the plant in a location that is inaccessible to your cat. Place the plant on high shelves or in areas that your cat cannot reach.
• If your cat is prone to chewing on plants, consider using a bitter spray. Sprays like Grannick's Bitter Apple are designed to deter cats from chewing on plants and other objects by giving them an unpleasant taste. You can spray the product on the leaves of the octopus tree to prevent your cat from chewing on it.
• Monitor your cat's behavior around plants. If you notice that your cat is being too curious or showing interest in the octopus tree, it's best to remove the plant from your home altogether.

What to Do if Your Cat Ingests the Octopus Tree?

If your cat ingests the octopus tree or its sap, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian may induce vomiting to remove the plant from your cat's system or provide supportive care to treat the symptoms.

It's also a good idea to bring a sample of the plant or its sap with you to the vet to allow them to identify the plant and provide the right treatment.

Conclusion

The octopus tree is not toxic to cats, but it can cause irritation to the mouth and throat if ingested due to its sap. As a cat owner, it's essential to take precautions to prevent your cat from coming into contact with the plant's sap and to seek veterinary care immediately if your cat ingests it. By following these precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of the octopus tree in your home while keeping your furry friend safe.