12 Common Houseplants That are Absolutely Toxic to Cats

Houseplants are a great way to bring some life and color into your home, but if you’re a cat owner, you need to be careful about the plants you choose. You may already know that some plants can be toxic to cats, but did you know that some of the most popular houseplants are among the most dangerous? From mild stomach upset to serious illness or even death, here are some of the most common houseplants that are toxic to cats, so you can make informed decisions about the plants you bring into your home. 

1. Lilies 

Lilies are beautiful flowers that are often used in bouquets and floral arrangements, but they are highly toxic to cats. All parts of the lily plant can cause kidney failure in cats, and even a small amount can be deadly. Symptoms of lily poisoning include vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. 

2. Pothos 

Pothos contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, swelling, and difficulty swallowing in cats. If your cat has ingested pothos, you may notice drooling or pawing at the mouth. In severe cases, pothos ingestion can cause breathing difficulties. 

3. Dieffenbachia 

Like pothos, it contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, swelling, and difficulty swallowing in cats. However, dieffenbachia can also cause skin irritation if the sap comes into contact with your cat’s skin. Symptoms of dieffenbachia poisoning include drooling, pawing at the mouth, and vomiting. 

4. Aloe Vera 

Aloe vera is a popular plant known for its healing properties, but it is toxic to cats. The white latex contains saponins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive issues in cats. Ingesting aloe vera can also cause lethargy and changes in urine color. However, the gel is safe to use topically for cats.

5. Asparagus Fern 

Asparagus fern is a delicate houseplant that is popular for its feathery leaves, but it is also toxic to cats. It contains sapogenins, which can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea in cats. Ingesting asparagus fern can also lead to dehydration and lethargy. 

6. Jade Plant 

A Jade plant is a succulent that is popular for its small, round leaves and ease of care. However, it is toxic to cats. Jade plant contains bufadienolides, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and a slow heart rate in cats. Ingesting jade plant can also cause depression and loss of coordination. 

7. Sago Palm 

Sago palm is a tropical plant that is often used as a decorative addition to homes and gardens, but it is highly toxic to cats. All parts of the sago palm contain cycasin, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and liver failure in cats. Ingesting even a small amount of the sago palm can be deadly for cats. 

8. Peace lily 

The peace lily is a beautiful plant that is often used for decoration in homes and offices. However, the leaves and sap of the plant contain oxalate crystals that can cause irritation and burning in the mouth and throat of cats. 

9. Snake plant 

Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is a popular houseplant that is known for its air-purifying properties. However, the leaves contain saponins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in cats. 

10. Rubber plant 

The rubber plant is a popular houseplant that is known for its large, shiny leaves. Unfortunately, the leaves contain a toxic sap that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in cats. 

11. ZZ plant 

The ZZ plant is a hardy plant that is easy to care for, making it a popular choice for those who want a low-maintenance houseplant. However, the leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting in cats. 

12. English Ivy 

English Ivy is a popular houseplant because of its attractive foliage and its ability to purify the air. However, it is toxic to cats. The plant contains triterpenoid saponins, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing in cats. 

What can you do to keep your cat safe? 

The plants listed above are just a few of the many houseplants that are toxic to cats, so be sure to do your research before bringing any plant into your home. As a cat owner, it is best to avoid having toxic plants altogether. But if you must, make sure to keep them out of reach.  

If you suspect that your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away. They can provide you with guidance on how to proceed and may recommend that you bring your cat in for an examination. With a little caution and care, you can create a safe and beautiful living space for both you and your feline friend.