Are you considering adding lush, vibrant plants to your home but have some concerns about their safety for your feline family member? You’re not alone.
Many pet owners want to introduce live greenery into their space that cats love but are worried that certain plants may be toxic to cats.
One of the most popular and highly rated houseplants - the Aglaonema plant also known as Chinese evergreen – raises a common question: Is the Aglaonema chinese evergreen plant really toxic to cats?
In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into answering this question once and for all.
We'll look at Cat Toxicology Reports, explore factors pertaining to possible toxicity between kitties & these indoor plants, and show you how best to cultivate a safe haven for both cat & plant alike. Read on.
Is aglaonema toxic to cats?
The short answer most cats get is no. While aglaonema, commonly known as Chinese evergreen, can cause skin and eye irritation in humans, it appears to be non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center (APCC).
However, keep in mind that different varieties of aglaonema may contain varying levels of toxicity.
Therefore, it’s best to avoid feeding any part of the plant directly to your cat; if they decide to take a bite, move the plant out of reach and monitor them closely for any signs of discomfort or distress.
It is important to note that cats are curious creatures and may attempt to ingest toxic plants, even when they are non-toxic.
To avoid any potential problems, err on the side of caution and place your aglaonema plants in a spot that’s out of reach from your cats.
Also, be sure to keep an eye out for any signs of distress or discomfort after coming into contact with the insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, such as drooling, vomiting, coughing or difficulty breathing.
Although aglaonema is considered to be relatively safe for cats, it’s important to consider the other factors that could potentially pose a risk.
For example, if you fertilize your plant regularly with chemical-based products or use cleaning agents near the plant, these toxins could be passed on to your cat.
Additionally, it’s possible that your cat could experience an allergic reaction to the sap or pollen of the plant; if this is a concern, you might want to consider purchasing an artificial aglaonema instead.
Also, be aware that some cats may attempt to eat the plant if they are bored or stressed; these cases should not be ignored and can often be prevented by providing plenty of stimulation and exercise.
Finally, it’s important to recognize that every pet is different and what may work for one cat owner might not work for another.
If you have any concerns or questions about introducing aglaonema into your home, it’s best to consult with an animal behavior specialist or veterinarian before making any decisions.
What is aglaonema and why are pet owners concerned about it ?
Aglaonema is a common type of houseplant that is known for its lush, vibrant foliage.
It’s also easy to maintain and doesn’t require constant care or attention, which makes it popular with pet owners who want to spruce up their space without having to worry about constantly tending to the plant.
However, pet and cat owners, are often concerned about the potential toxicity of this plant for their cats.
While aglaonema is chinese evergreen toxic plant generally considered to be non-toxic, there are still some factors to consider if you plan on introducing this type of houseplant into your home.
In addition to being mindful of the plant’s direct contact with your cat, also be aware of any potential toxins that could be passed on through chemical-based fertilizers or cleaning products.
What Are the Symptoms of Aglaonema Toxicity in Cats?
If you suspect that your cat has ingested any part of an aglaonema, it’s important to carefully monitor them for any signs of distress.
Common symptoms of toxicity include excessive drooling or, vomiting, coughing or difficulty breathing. If your cat experiences any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately and provide them with a detailed description of the incident.
What Should You Do if Your Cat Eats Aglaonema?
If your cat has eaten any part of an aglaonema, the best thing to do is to contact your veterinarian immediately.
Your vet will be able to assess the situation and provide you with information on what steps you should take next.
In most cases, it’s recommended that cats who have ingested aglaonema remain under observation for at least 24 hours to ensure that they don’t experience any adverse reactions.
Different ways to keep your cat safe from aglaonema exposure?
Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that you can take to ensure your pet friendly repellents safety when it comes to aglaonema exposure.
First, make sure that you keep the plant in an area of your house where cats will not be able to access it.
Secondly, avoid fertilizing the plant with chemical-based products and opt for organic alternatives instead.
Finally, if you’re concerned about your cat having an allergic reaction to the sap or pollen of the plant, consider purchasing an artificial aglaonema instead.
Signs of aglaonema poisoning in cats?
Aglaonema poisoning in cats can be hard to detect, as the symptoms may be similar to other common illnesses. If you suspect that your cat may have ingested aglaonema, watch for signs such as excessive drooling or, vomiting, coughing or any difficulty swallowing or breathing.
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately and provide a detailed description of the incident.
Also, be aware that some cats may attempt to eat the moonlight bay plant if they are bored or stressed; these emerald bay cases should not be ignored and can often be prevented by providing plenty of stimulation and exercise.
Toxicity of Aglaonema for Cats?
It’s important to remember that while aglaonema is generally considered to be non-toxic to cats, there are still some factors to consider before bringing this type of houseplant into your home.
Aglaonema can potentially be chinese evergreen plants toxic to cats if it is ingested or if the sap or pollen comes into chinese evergreens contact with the cat’s mouth or eyes.
To ensure safety, make sure that you keep the insoluble calcium oxalates plant in an area where cats are unable to access it, avoid using chemical-based fertilizers, and consider purchasing an artificial aglaonema instead.
Safe and Stylish Alternatives to Aglaonema?
If you’re looking for a safe, stylish alternative to the aglaonema plants, consider introducing some of the following plants into your home: spider plant, English ivy poison dart plant, wax plant, prayer plant and snake plant.
These plants are all non-toxic to cats and can add a beautiful touch of greenery to any space.
This way, you can have peace of mind knowing that your own feline friend or family member is safe while still enjoying the beauty and benefits of having live plants in your home.
Also, be sure to keep all houseplants out of reach of your cats.
Treatment for Aglaonema Poisoning in Cats?
If you suspect that your cat may have ingested any part of an aglaonema, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Your vet will be able to assess the situation and provide you with information on what steps you should take next.
Depending on their level of chinese evergreen plants, cats who have ingested aglaonema may require medical treatment such as intravenous fluids, vitamin supplements or dietary changes.
It’s important to note that some cats may require more aggressive forms of treatment such as activated charcoal and other gastrointestinal tract protectants.
Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with the best course of action for your pet's particular case.
Also, be aware that the symptoms of aglaonema poisoning can take up to 24 hours to manifest. And, if you are beginner want to increase your knowledge of weeding, the weeding books are very good source for this.
Conclusion
The conclusion revolves around answering our initial question: is aglaonema a toxic plant to cats? The good news is that the answer is no – more specifically, aglaonema has not been identified as a plant that is considered toxic or poisonous to cats.
However, it’s important to remember that any houseplant can potentially cause n unwanted reaction in your furry companion depending on what chemicals have been used to treat them and the environment in which you are growing them.
To truly be safe, ferret out any potential toxins before bringing your cat safe your pet into contact with it.
If unsure, always err on the side of caution and opt for plant terrarium known to be non-toxic, like most herbs and many ferns.
And if you’re ever unsure if it’s safe enough – just remember to always ask your vet.
Now that you know aglaonema is not toxic to cats, go ahead and take a closer at one and determine whether it could supplement or beautify your home today.
