Is Prayer Plant Toxic to Cats?

Introduction

If you are a cat lover who also loves houseplants, you likely have wondered if certain plants are safe for your furry friend. One such plant that often comes up in this discussion is the Prayer Plant, scientifically known as Maranta leuconeura. This tropical plant is known for its beautifully patterned leaves that fold up like praying hands, hence the name "Prayer Plant." But is it safe to keep this plant in your home if you have a cat? In this article, we will explore whether Prayer Plants are toxic to cats and what you should know about keeping these plants around your feline friends.

The Components of Prayer Plant

The first step to understanding whether or not Prayer Plants are toxic to cats is to examine their makeup. Like all plants, Prayer Plants contain various chemical compounds that give them their unique characteristics and also play a role in their toxicity. One major compound found in Prayer Plants is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, tongue, and throat if ingested by a cat. Another compound found in Prayer Plants is a saponin called maranthaside, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties in humans. However, it is still unclear how this compound may affect cats if ingested.

The Signs of Prayer Plant Toxicity in Cats

While the Prayer Plant is not considered deadly to cats, it can still cause discomfort and irritation if ingested. If your cat nibbles on your Prayer Plant, you may notice some of the following signs of toxicity:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Excessive drooling
• Mouth irritation
• Inappetence
• Difficulty swallowing

Prevention Measures

The good news is that it is relatively easy to prevent your cat from ingesting your Prayer Plant, and thereby avoid toxicity symptoms. The following are steps you can take to ensure that your cat is safe around your Prayer Plant:

• Place the plant in a location that is out of reach of your cat, such as on a tall shelf or hanging from the ceiling.
• Use a natural cat deterrent spray, such as diluted vinegar or citrus juice, to discourage your cat from approaching and nibbling on the plant.
• Provide your cat with plenty of cat-friendly plants to nibble on, such as catnip or wheatgrass, to satisfy their natural curiosity and urge to chew on leaves.
• Supervise your cat when they are in the same room as the Prayer Plant, and redirect their attention if they start to show interest in the plant.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Prayer Plants do contain compounds that could potentially cause toxicity symptoms if ingested by a cat, the risk of serious harm is low. By taking some simple precautions, such as placing the plant out of reach and providing your cat with cat-friendly plants to chew on, you can keep both your cat and your Prayer Plant happy and healthy. As a responsible pet owner, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with household plants and to take steps to prevent harm to your furry friend.

Sources:

• https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/prayer-plant
• https://www.houseplantsexpert.com/prayer-plant.html
• https://www.petmd.com/cat/emergency/digestive/e_ct_poisonous_plants?page=show
• https://www.thespruce.com/prayer-plant-care-1902747