It’s always a good thing to have plants in the house, but cat owners must be aware that there are certain houseplants that are toxic and unsafe for cats. Herein, we take a look at why cats may eat these toxic houseplants and how certain plants have a toxic effect on them.

Houseplants and Cats
Most people love keeping plants in their homes as they make the place feel pleasant to the eye and help in improving oxygen circulation in the home. People love to keep decorative house plants inside the home, on the porch, or even in the garden.

A problem arises if you also keep cats in your house. Cats are, by nature, curious and love to check things out. The chances of a cat exploring your plants are high. Contact with some houseplants can harm your cat as these plants may be toxic.

Toxic Houseplants
All those who keep houseplants should know that some of them are toxic for cats. These plants that look attractive and maybe harmless for humans can be dangerous for your little ball of fur.

Normally, pets only chew plants that help them digest food. House cats get bored quite easily, and to while away time, they may decide to play with your houseplants. The chances of them chewing up plant parts are very high. Kittens are more likely to eat the attractively colored houseplants.

If you have kept houseplants that are toxic, then your cat is at risk of being poisoned. You need to understand what happens when your cat comes into contact with a toxic houseplant.

Toxic Plants
A colorful flower or leaf fluttering in the breeze may attract your cat to it. Accidental contact can happen, leading to your cat being affected if the plant is toxic. For instance, the lily, which is such a favorite of homeowners, is highly toxic and can cause kidney failure in cats. Some plants are more dangerous, while others may only end up causing an upset stomach.

Any of the plant parts may be toxic. Most commonly, cats are likely to chew on the leaves or stems. Some plants have toxic seeds and flowers. Even the pollen from the plant can affect your cat. This is why you need to be careful with toxic houseplants.

Effect of Toxic Houseplants on Cats
When your cat eats a part of a toxic plant, it leads to different kinds of effects. It’s important to know about them, so you can understand what happened. Some of the effects of plants on cats are

• Eating a small quantity of lily can cause kidney failure.
• Asparagus fern causes skin allergies or abdominal pain.
• Onions can cause anemia by reducing red blood cells.
• Consuming a jade plant can cause vomiting and imbalance.
• Philodendron can cause frothing in the mouth.
• Sago can lead to seizures and liver failure.

The information on toxic houseplants for cats presented herein will help you understand what happens to your cat when it eats such a plant.