Here are some of the other poisonous plants to cats that you may not know. However, it gets even worse when the sap is consumed. Unfortunately, Zamioculcas, also known as eternity plant, The Answer Tree, Zuzu plant, emerald palm, aroid plant, aroid palm, Zanzibar gem, or ZZ plants, are poisonous to cats, dogs, and even human beings, notes the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension. Yes, the ZZ plant is mildly poisonous to cats, dogs and humans if directly ingested. When the plant is chewed, clinical signs are visible immediately. These great big flowers have a personality of their own. As a member of the Araceae family many people ask the question: Is The ZZ Plant Poisonous or Toxic To People, Dogs, Cats or Horses? Plants safe for cats (10 Best Plants) #1- Hibiscus. It is why many homes have this type of plant as a decorative feature. It is not the most toxic among the poisonous indoor plants and it has made a much better reputation for itself in the past few years. So if you have pets or children, this is one houseplant you’ll definitely want to keep out of reach. You like to keep your ZZ plant, yet you also love your pets to bits. The toxicity of this plant is derived from the calcium oxalate crystals located in the sap. By April Sanders Zamioculcas zamiifolia is more commonly known as the ZZ plant, because it is a mouthful to say. Your curious little cat will undergo diarrhea and vomiting as the body tries to expel this substance. Baby's Breath. For instance, it produces calcium oxalate. This is specifically true when you live in a tighter space where there is no other spot to place this plant. #4- The Sunflower. Poisonous: All parts of this plant are said to be toxic if ingested by children, cats and dogs. Thegardenprepper.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Check Price on Amazon . Stomach irritation with symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting may arise. Required fields are marked *. So, I am here to share with you what exactly the ZZ plants do and how they impact your curious little feline. #5- Baby’s Tears. You also need to ensure your kids cannot access any toxic plants. The same holds true with rubbing your eyes after you touch this plant. Please be sure to check the name of the plant to determine its toxicity. Yes, they are, but that does not mean you can no longer keep these green beauties in the house. When your little feline comes close enough to consume bits of it, this can be bad news to your pet. The quick and definitive answer is Yes. With some practical techniques, you can keep both the plant and your cat and make sure no one gets sick along the process. Of course, ingesting any plant material … Give your cat plenty of water and some food. Why are they toxic? So, how can you keep both without worrying about any illness or accidents with your cats? These are very popular indoor plants due to the ease of taking care of these. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Moreover, they add beauty to your home. The plant contains a sap that reacts with your skin’s mucous membranes. These are quite common indoor plants because of their low-maintenance quality. In fact, one of the most popular house plants ever is the ZZ plant! Even touching ZZ plant sap can potentially cause skin and eye irritation. They brighten your living space, help improve indoor air quality, and have been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression - plus many people find caring for plants therapeutic.Unfortunately, if you have cats there are many houseplants that you should avoid bringing into your home due to their toxic properties - especially since cats … Here are those plants: 1. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Now that you know the effects ZZ plants have on your pet, let’s talk about solutions. ZZ plants are grown from rhizomes, which means that they appreciate infrequent watering, making them an overall low-maintenance houseplant. Other ways may include the use of cat repellents and deterrents, training them not to eat plants, picking any leaves that fall, and so on. ZZ plant is a common name for the genus Zamioculcas and, by extension, its only species Zamioculcas zamiifolia in the family Araceae (the arum family). Consider sprinkling some coffee grounds or spraying a vinegar solution around the plant. Thus, your body will want to get rid of it quickly by causing you to vomit. Like rubber trees, broken leaves produce a sap that can get onto human skin and cat mouths. There have been myths revolving around the ZZ plants and how they can actually cause cancer. #3- The Blood Leaf. Common Plants and Flowers That Are Poisonous to Cats. ZZ Plants. The truth of the matter is that ZZ plants are poisonous, but not lethally toxic to pets. ZZ plant is poisonous to pets and humans. Whether you place them in low-light conditions or not frequently watered, these plants can thrive without a doubt. It has small and has striped leaves, occasionally flowers but rarely when kept indoors. Although ZZ Plants are considered to be toxic, it’s worth mentioning that “toxic” is a somewhat relative term. It is quite surprising that there are simply some plants that do not exactly blend well with your household members including pets. In short, yes the Fiddle Leaf Fig plant is mildly toxic to cats and will cause very mild oral and GI irritation. While not generally dangerous to humans, all lilies are highly toxic to cats and certain varieties can be toxic to dogs … This plant was in-fact considered extremely poisonous and to be handled with gloves. The Reasons Why, A Helpful Guide to Growing Artichokes in Oregon. This can facilitate the removal of the toxin. What makes the plant poisonous is its unique composition. However, it will not seriously harm you or your furry friends. The sure way to protect your dangerous or harmful houseplants is cat-proofing them. One of these plants, for instance, are ZZ plants or the Zamioculcas Zamifolia. This substance makes up your kidney stones, and it has sharp edges. Your mucous membranes and the skin react quickly when exposed to calcium oxalate. Unfortunately, it also happens to make the list of poisonous houseplants, and all parts of the plant are considered toxic to humans and pets. Common names: Amaryllis, fire lily, lily of the palace, ridderstjerne Toxic to: Cats, dogs Symptoms: Vomiting, salvation, diarrhea (large quantities can cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors and cardiac arrhythmias) Note: The bulbs are the most poisonous part of this plant. Shortly, the answer is yes. While “toxic” sounds like a scary word, it is very unlikely the ZZ plant will kill or cause significant harm to you or your pets. Additionally, some deterrents can help. Dragon tree plants are toxic to cats and dogs, and cats especially like to nibble on their slim leaves. The same symptoms happen to pets. Although they cannot exactly kill them or any other pets at home, it is best to be cautious about it. Unfortunately, this beautiful plant is a threat to your pets, especially cats. Feline owners frequently ask – Are ZZ plants toxic to cats? Calla lilies are beautiful, but at the same time, they are one of the poisonous plants for dogs and cats. Plants listed as either non-toxic, or potentially toxic with mild GI upset as their symptoms are not expected to be life-threatening to your pets. Just merely touching the plant should be fine except for some skin irritation. What is a ZZ Plant? Plant Care Tips ... ZZ plants are mildly toxic to humans as well as pets if ingested. Yes, all parts of ZZ plants are poisonous to animals and humans. ZZ plants are not the best plants to have when you have cats in the house. For instance, you may want to keep the plant in your room and keep the door closed. But after some hours, the symptoms will eventually subside. Not Enough Time To Maintain The Garden? If you have a reason to suspect your cat has eaten the ZZ plants, take her to your vet or call the following numbers for further assistance: If you love this charming and hardy plant and you have cats, you can still grow it. Thus, your skin tends to get irritated when you touch this sap. The ZZ plants are toxic to cats because they have insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, just like most other plants in the same family like pothos, monsteras, aglaonemas, and dumb cane, calla lilies, peace lilies, Caladium, flamingo plant, among others. Toxic parts: All parts of the plant are toxic to cats; Causes: Oral irritation; Symptoms: Drooling, pawing at the mouth, oral swelling and pain, vomiting, loss of appetite and difficulty breathing; Zanzibar (ZZ) plant ZZ Plant The Zamioculcas Zamifolia, aka ZZ Plant, is one of those “tough as nails” houseplants that can survive just about anywhere, even in extremely low light. However, this is only an assumption as there is no truth in it. A pet that comes in contact with a ZZ plant may develop inflammation of the skin, eyes or mucus membranes. So, are ZZ plants toxic to cats? They are tough and capable of surviving anywhere. Sadly, ZZ plants are toxic to dogs, cats, and people if ingested and can cause oral burning, swelling, irritation, vomiting, excessive drooling, and difficulty breathing. Houseplants are a common sight in nearly every home. The place where it grows just needs to be able to accommodate it's size in diameter, which can become over 2ft once it matures - making a table area a nice place to display the plant. Philodendron, ficus, ZZ plants, and aloe can be problematic for your pet (a complete list of plant toxicity in cats and dogs can be found here). Nerve plants thrive best in quite high humidity, so are particularly suitable as a terrarium plant. This will help prevent your cat from getting inside and coming into contact with this plant. Something like a plant terrarium will work well. What can you do to make sure they do not suffer these risks and symptoms? When the plant is chewed, clinical signs are visible immediately. But simply touching it or brushing your skin against it will not kill you at all. Avocado Trees Turning Yellow? They experience diarrhea and vomiting as their bodies want to eliminate this calcium oxalate quickly. Surprising Plant Fact – Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Cats? Are ZZ Plants Toxic To Pets? ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas) This plant definitely isn’t ZZ Top for your pet as it can result in irritable reactions including diarrhea and vomiting. There are lots of non-toxic ones that won't harm your curious critters if they take a little nibble. Exposure to the plant can also cause minor skin and eye irritation. Toxic Properties: Insoluble calcium oxalates According to sources such as Richard Jauron from the Department of Horticulture at Iowa State University. The symptoms for Fiddle Leaf Fig poisoning only will last about 24 hrs and you can help treat the symptoms with plenty of milk and water. ZZ plant is not deadly, but you … We use cookies to help give you the best experience. Common names: Maiden's breath Toxic to: Cats, dogs Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea Barbados Lily. Once any part of a lily plant is ingested by cats in good health, the outlook isn’t good and that’s the same for dogs … The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (800)426-4435 (charges a fee). Ingesting the leaf will not at all be fatal. Haworthia Zebra (Haworthia attenuata) A member of the succulent group of plants, this little plant, reminiscent of cacti, originates from South Africa and is safe for cats and dogs. If your cats eat ZZ plants, some of the typical symptoms they suffer from include the following: Humans will suffer from dermatitis if the sap of Zamioculcas touches their skin, and it is toxic if it is ingested and will irritate the mucous membrane. The plant does have toxic effects when ingested. According to the University of Florida, all parts of the plant are toxic to cats, dogs and humans. Like many other plants that make up the toxic pet list, ZZ plants produce calcium oxalates which is a serious irritant internally and externally. Many toxic plants are irritants: they cause localized inflammation of the skin, mouth, stomach, etc. Severe oral irritation and burning that includes the tongue, lips, and mouth. If you have pets in the house, it is best to keep the plant out of their reach. 19 Air Purifying House Plants that are Poisonous and Toxic to Cats and Dogs. The ZZ Plant is considered a Caution, (mildly toxic), plant. Zamioculcas zamiifolia, or “ZZ Plant” Attractive for its ability to thrive in low-light environments, the ZZ plant can cause adverse reactions such as vomiting and diarrhea. This plant is bad for both dogs and cats and is also known as Emerald Fern, Emerald Feather, Sprengeri Fern, Lace Fern and Plumosa Fern. A rumor that ZZ plants cause cancer started making rounds in the 2010s, but that information is also not accurate. The toxic chemical of the lily plant is unknown but it does contain something that causes kidney failure in cats.For dogs with an existing kidney or liver disease, the same can happen.All your vet can do is offer support because the prognosis is poor at best. Expert Guide on How to Prune Pepper Plants for Maximum Yield – Simple, Easy Steps! Aloe Vera. Let’s get started. Ingesting ZZ plants can cause vomiting, stomach aches, and diarrhea. Here are some of the most common plants poisonous to cats with mild symptoms: Philodendron, Pothos, Dieffenbachia, Peace lily, Poinsettia – Whether it comes from chewing on or ingesting the plants, all of these can lead to mouth and throat irritation, drooling and vomiting. This is why you end up going through skin irritations because of this substance. Because of their popularity, ZZ plants are going to be found in homes that have dogs. The short answer is yes, they are, to cats, dogs, and people. However, you will need to ensure you protect, i.e., ensure your children and pets don’t access it. The American Association of Poison Control Centers (800) 222-1222. They may be curious enough to try to chew on the leaf. However, it is concerning when you see your pet suffering from a wide range of stomach issues. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia) 12-Inch Tall in Grower’s Pot, $42.89, Amazon, Top 7 High-Quality Beds to Keep Your Dog Warm Outside, 11 Essential to Buy Before Bringing a New Puppy, Bearded Dragon Basking and Nighttime Temperature, Best Terrarium, Vivarium, or Tank Heat Sources. ZZ plants are not the best plants to have when you have cats in the house. Choosing a location at home that is inaccessible to your felines is the perfect solution. After all, there are some aspects of it that many people are not aware of. You may suffer from skin irritation when you fail to wash your hands well after being in contact with the plant. However, if you have a cat in the house, it may be best to keep caution about this plant. Now, when cats consume the sap or even the leaves, this can be quite harmful. Are ZZ plants toxic to cats and dogs? The toxic principle in other plants may have a systemic effect and damage or alter the function of a cat’s organs, like the kidney or heart. First, you should make sure that you place this plant in an ideal spot. How Do You Treat Fungus on a Magnolia Tree? I hope you were able to learn valuable information and tips from this post to keep your pets and household members safe each time. The ZZ plants are toxic to cats because they have insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, just like most other plants in the same family like pothos, monsteras, aglaonemas, and dumb cane, calla lilies, peace lilies, Caladium, flamingo plant, among others. Likes temperatures from 8 to 26 c and enjoys bright indirect sunlight. Your email address will not be published. ZZ plants have a reputation for being poisonous strictly by its family association. Toxic Principles: Saponins When cats ingest any plant with insoluble calcium oxalates, they will pierce or embed on their oral or intestinal mucous membrane causing a lot of pain. However, are these plants toxic to dogs? How to Keep Pets Safe with a ZZ Plant in the House, How to Prevent Pets from Coming Into Contact with ZZ Plants. #2- Ferns. Like Philodendron, ZZ plant contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and respiratory issues. These methods cannot guarantee you 100% that your cat won’t nibble harmful houseplants. Hibiscus flower. Have you ever heard of or seen a ZZ plant? Your email address will not be published. Although they cannot exactly kill them or any other pets at home, it is best to be cautious about it. Otherwise, it will not be fatal to humans or cats at all. Copyright © 2021 Pet Care Advisors | All Rights Researved. The majority of things you have maybe heard about the plant are blown out of proportion. Never keep it in an area where your cats love to linger around. Also, be advised that the consumption of any plant material may cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset for dogs and cats. They come in a variety of colors and have multiple uses. The strong smell will discourage your pet from coming close to it. Are your pets safe from your indoor plants? This a curious question many people wonder about – are ZZ plants toxic to cats? The main symptoms of ZZ plant contact include irritation when touched or stomach pain and nausea if ingested. These extremely small and sharp crystals are what cause the adverse symptoms associated with this plant. A Quick Guide, Why Are My Calla Lily Leaves Turning Yellow? Sansevieria Some “toxic” or “poisonous” houseplants produce isolated symptoms, often very mild, like rashes or upset stomach, while others cause … Asparagus Fern. The plant contains a sap that reacts with your skin’s mucous membranes. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List - Cats Plants Toxic to Cats Adam-and-Eve (Arum, Lord-and-Ladies, Wake Robin, Starch Root, Bobbins, Cuckoo Plant) | Scientific Names: Arum maculatum | … Many people think that because their cats and dogs are smaller than they are, that the ZZ plant can have more of an impact. Here are the Reasons Why! Native to eastern Africa, from northeastern South Africa to Kenya, ZZ plants are a real charm if you are looking for an evergreen garden or houseplant with pinnately compound and lovely glossy leaves that grow from its rhizome. Such a beautiful plant deserves a place in every home, and they have been confirmed to be completely safe for cats, and in fact for dogs and humans too, so you needn’t have any concern about the safety of having this plant in your home. 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