When you adopt a cat, our veterinarian can guide you through their daily care needs and a multitude of ways to prioritize pet wellness. One factor that you’ll need to consider when welcoming a curious cat into your household is what indoor plants are present. Here’s a list of common house plants that are poisonous to cats that should be removed, hung from the ceiling, or placed out of reach to avoid unnecessary trips to a veterinary clinic. 

4 Common House Plants That Are Toxic to Cats

1. Asparagus Fern

The feathery appearance of the asparagus fern is an attractive addition to any home. This type of fern contains sapogenin, a property that can lead to vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, and skin irritation in cats. To protect your pet, place these plants out of reach or hang them from ceiling hooks.

2. Aloe Vera

While fresh aloe vera can be quite soothing to a human’s skin, this plant will negatively impact the health of your cat if they eat it. Aloe vera plants contain saponins that lead to added water and mucus in your cat’s colon. As a result, they may exhibit symptoms like vomiting, red urine, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and in extreme cases, tremors. 

3. Easter Lilies

While the exact toxin responsible for the negative reaction in cats remains unknown, veterinarians remind all cat owners to refrain from keeping Easter or Tiger lilies inside the home. If the petals, pollen, or stems are consumed by a cat, this plant can be lethal as it causes kidney failure. Should your cat exhibit symptoms such as extreme thirst, frequent urination, lack of coordination, and vomiting, take them to the veterinarian right away for monitoring, fluids, and decontamination. 

4. Jade Plant

Jade plants, also known as Japanese rubber plants or a money tree, are popular in households due to their bright green color and thick, shiny leaves. Unfortunately, if a cat gnaws on a jade plant, they’ll need to visit a veterinarian to combat negative symptoms such as vomiting, lethargy, depression, and coordination issues. 

If you’re a pet owner in the Greater Charles Town, WV, area, and you’re looking for a dedicated veterinarian to provide lifelong care for a furry friend, all of us at Countryside Veterinary Clinic are here to help. Since opening in 1992, our local animal clinic, led by Dr. Dennis Dibbern, has provided compassionate care geared toward pet wellness and happiness. Call us today at (304) 725-7663 to schedule an appointment and visit our website for more information on our services, from cat boarding to dental work.