Is Shrimp Cactus Toxic to Cats?

Introduction

Cats are known for their curious nature, and can't resist exploring their environment. Many houseplants are commonly grown in houses, but not all of them are safe for cats. Shrimp Cactus is a popular houseplant that has been gaining popularity with its well-known benefits for air-quality, and due to its ease of care. The plant, however, has been rumored to be toxic to cats. This article will explore the truth about whether Shrimp Cactus is harmful to cats, looking at scientific studies, and expert opinions on the topic.

What is Shrimp Cactus?

Shrimp plant cactus (Epidendrum ciliare) is a kind of epiphytic orchid that grows on trees and other solid surfaces. It is also known as the shrimp orchid or dancing-lady orchidc. Its elongated, thin leaves that can grow up to 15cm long. The stems extend up to 45cm long, and can sprout several branches. The flowers of this plant are incredibly striking, and resemble small shrimp tails, which is where the name comes from.

Is Shrimp Cactus Toxic to Cats?

Before bringing any plants into your home, it’s essential to ensure they’re safe for your pets. The rumor about Shrimp Cactus being toxic to cats has been widely circulated on the internet, but is there any truth to this?

According to American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Shrimp Cactus is non-toxic to cats, and they can safely chew on and play with the plant without any significant hazards.

Additionally, Dr. Tina Wismer, DVM, the Medical Director of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, has the same opinion. According to her, "There's nothing to suggest that the Shrimp Cactus is toxic to pets."

Despite this, it’s always best to keep an eye on your pets when they’re around plants, as individual cats can have different reactions to different substances.

Potential Risks Associated with Shrimp Cactus

While the Shrimp Cactus plant may not be toxic to cats, there are a few potential risks to be aware of. Firstly, the long, thin leaves of this plant can present a choking hazard for a playful cat that tries to eat them. Additionally, ingestion of large portions of this plant can cause mild digestive upsets such as vomiting or diarrhea.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Shrimp Cactus

If you suspect that your cat has ingested some part of a Shrimp Cactus, monitor them closely for signs of distress. Stomach upsets are the most typical indication that something is wrong, and you may see vomiting, diarrhea, or a lack of appetite in your cat. Fortunately, in most cases, this plant is unlikely to cause serious harm to your cat. However, if you’re unsure or your cat is not recovering after a couple of hours, consult your veterinarian.

Conclusion

In summary, Shrimp Cactus is considered to be non-toxic to cats, and they can safely interact with the plant. However, as with all cats and plants, it’s always best to monitor your cat to ensure that they are not at risk of ingestion or any other hazard from the plant. If you’re in doubt about the safety of your cat and any plants in your home, consider speaking to your veterinarian, who will be able to advise you on the best course of action.