Having house plants around your home or apartment can brighten your space and make it feel more natural and welcoming. However, even if you love having plants around your room, you still have to be careful if you have pets in the household. It’s possible to be a great cat parent and a good plant parent, but there are some houseplants you’ll want to avoid, or at least try to keep far away from your cat.
One popular houseplant many people include in their interior decorating is the jade plant. They are a straightforward variety to grow, but this doesn’t mean they are safe to have around cats or dogs. Unfortunately, jade plants are toxic to cats, especially if they chew on or eat any part of the plant.
But, while jade plants are not the best option for cat-friendly households, you can choose other similar-looking varieties instead. Keep reading to find out what to do if your cat eats a jade plant and how to choose safer alternatives.
How Does Eating Jade Plants Affect Cats?
If you already have a jade plant in your home or if your cat encountered a jade plant somewhere else, you’ll want to know what to do next. The symptoms of jade plant toxicity include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Slowed heart rate
- Lethargy
- Lack of coordination
If your cat is displaying any of these symptoms, it’s best to contact your vet. In some cases, the symptoms might go away quickly, but you should monitor your cat closely and seek professional help from an experienced veterinarian.
Keep in mind that jade plant poisoning can be severe, so it’s better to take your feline to the vet, even if you aren’t sure what’s causing the symptoms.
Are All Jade Plants Poisonous To Cats?
Jade plants are succulents, and they are a staple for many people who prefer a plant that doesn’t need a lot of watering. They are also known for being sturdy and low maintenance. But, while there are quite a few different kinds of jade plants, you should avoid them all as they all can harm your cat.
Other common names for these plants include baby jade and rubber plant. You may also see them listed as money plants or silver dollar plants. So, to keep your cat or other pets safe, make sure to research any houseplant before you bring it home.
Some Safer Alternatives To Jade Plants
While jade plants aren’t safe to have around your home if you have cats or dogs, you can keep other similar succulents. The following houseplants are safe to have in your home:
- Burro’s tail
- Hen and chicks
- Bunny ear cactus
These are just a few non-toxic options to keep your space looking beautiful while knowing your best feline friend is safe and sound.
Final Thoughts
Because jade plants can lead to severe symptoms or fatalities, it’s best to keep them out of your residence and away from your property. However, you have several alternatives to jades that you can display safely in your home. Contact a vet if your feline has eaten part of a jade plant.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
