Is Patient Plant Toxic to Cats?

Introduction:

Patient plant, commonly known as prayer plant, is a popular indoor ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage. The plant is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of environments. 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 whether patient plants are toxic to cats and what to do if your cat consumes this plant.

Toxicity:

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), patient plants are not toxic to cats. This is good news for cat owners who have this plant in their home. However, it is essential to note that the plant can still cause some negative effects if your cat ingests it.

Effects of Ingesting Patient Plant:

While patient plants are not toxic to cats, ingesting them can still cause some unpleasant symptoms. The plant contains oxalates, which are crystals that can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested. So if you notice that your cat has eaten a patient plant, keep an eye on them for signs of digestive distress. If the symptoms persist, consult with your veterinarian. It is also worth noting that the oxalates in patient plants can cause skin irritation. So if your cat has brushed against the plant, you may notice some skin irritation. If this happens, wash the affected area with soap and water and monitor your cat for signs of a more severe reaction.

Preventing Exposure:

While patient plants are not toxic to cats, it is still best to prevent your cat from ingesting the plant. Here are some ways to do that:

• Place the plant out of your cat's reach. Since patient plants are low-growing, it may be best to place them on a higher shelf or in a hanging basket.
• Provide your cat with plenty of other safe plants to nibble on. Cats like to explore their environment with their mouths, so giving them other plants to chew on can keep them distracted from the potentially harmful ones.
• Supervise your cat around plants. If you notice that your cat is showing interest in a plant, keep an eye on them to ensure they do not ingest it.

Conclusion:

Patient plants are not toxic to cats, but ingesting them can still cause some negative effects. If your cat consumes this plant, monitor them for signs of digestive distress and consult with your veterinarian if needed. To prevent exposure, place the plant out of your cat's reach, provide them with other safe plants to chew on, and supervise them around plants. By following these steps, you can ensure that your cat remains safe and healthy around patient plants.

References:

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). (n.d.). Prayer Plant. ASPCA. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/plants/prayer-plant.
• Plant Care Today. (2021, Aug 30). Prayer Plant Care Guide: Growing and Caring for Maranta Leuconeura. Plant Care Today. https://plantcaretoday.com/prayer-plant.html.
• Poison Control. (n.d.). Maranta arundinacea (Prayer Plant). Poison Control. https://www.poison.org/articles/2015-dec/maranta-arundinacea-prayer-plant.