Is Kalanchoe Poisonous to Cats: If you’re a cat owner and love to decorate your home🏠 with plants, you might be wondering if Kalanchoe is safe for your furry friend. The short answer is no, Kalanchoe is poisonous to cats😺.
This popular houseplant contains bufadienolides, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in rare cases, abnormal heart rate and rhythm.
This article will discuss the harmful effects of Kalanchoe for cats, and offer suggestions on how you can ensure your cat’s😺 safety.
What is Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe, also known as flaming Katy or Christmas kalanchoe, is a genus of flowering succulent plants that belong to the Crassulaceae family.
There are over 125 species of Kalanchoe, and they’re native to various regions, including Africa, Madagascar, and Asia.
Kalanchoe is a favorite plant for the home due to its vivid lasting flowers that are available in a variety of shades, such as red, pink orange, yellow and white.
Is Kalanchoe Poisonous to Cats
Yes, Kalanchoe is toxic to cats. The plant contains cardiac glycosides, which are compounds that affect the heart’s function.
If a cat consumes Kalanchoe it may trigger diverse symptoms, such as stomach upset vomiting, diarrhea, and in more severe instances, cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure.
What Parts of Kalanchoe Are Toxic to Cats
All parts of Kalanchoe are toxic to cats, including the leaves, flowers, stems, and sap. Even a small amount of the plant can cause adverse effects in cats😺.
What are the Symptoms of Kalanchoe Poisoning in Cats
The symptoms of Kalanchoe poisoning in cats can vary depending on the amount ingested and the cat’s overall health. The most common indicators to look for are:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Depression
- Cardiac arrhythmias or heart failure (in severe cases)
What should I do if My Cat Eats Kalanchoe
If you suspect that your cat has ingested Kalanchoe, contact your veterinarian immediately. It’s essential to act fast as the plant’s toxic effects can be severe.
Your veterinarian may induce vomiting to remove any remaining plant material from your cat’s system. They may also administer activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of the plant’s toxins.
In extreme cases, hospitalization as well as supportive care including IV fluids and medication could be required.
How Can I Prevent Kalanchoe Poisoning in Cats
Prevention is the best option for your pet’s overall health. Here are some tips to prevent Kalanchoe poisoning in cats:
Keep Kalanchoe plants out of your cat’s reach. Place them in high areas or behind closed doors.
Consider using alternative, non-toxic plants in your home🏠, such as spider plants, African violets, or bamboo palms.
Educate yourself and your family members about the potential dangers of Kalanchoe to cats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re a cat owner, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers of Kalanchoe plants. They’re gorgeous and require minimum maintenance, they’re an excellent source of harmful chemicals.
can be harmful to cats and can trigger various adverse reactions. They are cardiac arrhythmias as well as heart failure and cold.
FAQs
What is Kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe is a common houseplant with hundreds of flowers that range in color from yellow to orange, pink, or red.
Is Kalanchoe poisonous to cats?
Yes, Kalanchoe is considered mildly toxic to cats.
What makes Kalanchoe toxic to cats?
The toxicity in Kalanchoe plants comes from bufadienolides, which is a cardiac toxin.
What are the symptoms of Kalanchoe toxicity in cats?
Clinical signs of Kalanchoe toxicity in cats include drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, Kalanchoe toxicity can lead to liver failure.
What should I do if my cat ingests Kalanchoe?
If you suspect that your cat may have consumed Kalanchoe, call the APCC at (888) 426-4435 or your local vet promptly.
Is Kalanchoe more toxic to cats or dogs?
Kalanchoe is toxic to both cats and dogs.
What are the common names for Kalanchoe?
Common names for Kalanchoe include Mother-In-Law-Plant, Devil’s Backbone, Chandelier Plant, and Mother of Millions.
What family does Kalanchoe belong to?
Kalanchoe belongs to the Crassulaceae family.
What are the clinical signs of Kalanchoe toxicity in dogs?
Clinical signs of Kalanchoe toxicity in dogs include gastrointestinal irritation or upset, changes in heart rate and rhythm, weakness, and collapse.
What should I do if my dog ingests Kalanchoe?
When you think your pet may have consumed Kalanchoe, call the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 as quickly as you can.
Is Kalanchoe one of the most dangerous plants for cats?
No, Kalanchoe is not one of the most dangerous plants for cats.
What is the toxicity level of Kalanchoe for cats?
The toxicity level of Kalanchoe for cats is mild.
How can I prevent my cat from ingesting Kalanchoe?
To prevent your cat from ingesting Kalanchoe, keep the plant out of reach or choose a different plant that is not toxic to cats.