Is Queens Spiderwort Toxic to Cats?

Queens Spiderwort, also known as Tradescantia ohiensis, is an ornamental plant that is commonly found in gardens and yards. This plant is known for its beautiful violet-blue flowers and long, narrow leaves. While it is a popular choice for many gardeners, there has been some concern about whether or not Queens Spiderwort is toxic to cats.

The Science Behind Queens Spiderwort

Queens Spiderwort is a member of the Commelinaceae family, which includes more than 600 species of plants. This family is known for its attractive flowers and foliage and is commonly found throughout North America.

Queens Spiderwort is a hardy plant that can survive in a range of soil types and climates. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to three feet tall and has long, narrow leaves that can reach up to 10 inches in length. The plant blooms from May to September and produces clusters of violet-blue flowers that are approximately 1 inch in diameter.

Is Queens Spiderwort Toxic to Cats?

There is no evidence to suggest that Queens Spiderwort is toxic to cats. In fact, there have been no reported cases of cats suffering from toxicity as a result of ingesting this plant. While it is always important to be cautious when introducing new plants to your home or garden, there is no need to be concerned about the safety of your cats around Queens Spiderwort.

It is worth noting that while Queens Spiderwort is not toxic to cats, it may still cause some gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities. This is because the plant contains oxalates, which can irritate the stomach and cause vomiting or diarrhea. However, the levels of oxalates in Queens Spiderwort are considered to be low, and most cats are unlikely to eat enough of the plant to cause any significant health problems.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe Around Queens Spiderwort

While Queens Spiderwort is not toxic to cats, it is still important to take precautions to keep your cats safe around this plant. Here are some tips to help you minimize the risk of your cat ingesting Queens Spiderwort:

• Ensure that your cat has access to plenty of fresh water to help flush any ingested plant material out of their system
• Keep your cat well-fed to discourage them from eating plants as a source of nutrition
• Consider using physical barriers to keep your cat away from plants that may pose a risk to their health
• Watch your cat closely when they are in the garden or yard to ensure they do not eat any plants
• If you are concerned about your cat's safety around certain plants, consult with your veterinarian for advice on how to minimize the risk of toxicity

Conclusion

While Queens Spiderwort is a beautiful and hardy plant, there is no need to be concerned about its safety around cats. This plant is not known to be toxic to cats, and most cats are unlikely to ingest enough of the plant to cause any significant health problems. However, it is always important to take precautions to ensure your cat's safety around plants, and to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about their health.