The spider plant is one of the most popular plants in homes across America. The reason for this is that it is very easy to grow, adaptable, and can thrive in a variety of conditions.
However, there are some people who believe that the spider plant poses a danger to cats and other animals if they chew on them or eat them. Is this true? Is spider plant safe for cats? Well, while there are many plants safe for cats, spider plants might not be on the list.
In today's blog post we will discuss whether or not the spider plant is poisonous for cats, dogs, and your other pets.
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Interesting Facts About Spider Plants
Below are some facts about spider plants that may interest you:
- The spider plant is a perennial flowering plant that is native to tropical and southern Africa but has become naturalized in other parts of the world. It is among the most adaptable houseplant, very easy to grow, and can even be grown outdoors in frost-free climates.
- The spider plant is an excellent air purifier. It has natural electricity and ionizing properties, which can improve the quality of indoor air by removing a variety of airborne allergens like mold spores from the environment while releasing negative ions that inhibit bacterial growth.
- Spider plants also release oxygen at night when they are under short day length. This is helpful for people who work long hours and are in closed spaces
- Do not overwater spider plant as it can rot from the roots. It is better to let them dry out slightly between watering periods.
- Spider plants like light but also prefer medium bright indirect sunlight. They will grow well without direct sun.
Do Cats Like Spider Plants?
Cats may be drawn to spider plants because of the movement from their leaves. One theory is that cats are attracted to moving objects, such as insects or prey in a hunt.
Furthermore, house cats that do not have the privileges of roaming outside may find houseplants to be the closest thing they can get to scratch that itch for fresh greens. And spider ivy particularly resembles grass.
While spider plant has shown no signs of poisoning on pets, they have hallucinogenic properties, which is primarily what attracts cats to the plant.
Just like catnip, spider plants produce chemicals that inspire your cat’s obsessive behavior and fascination.
Is Spider Plant Safe for Cats?
Yes, spider plant is nontoxic and safe for humans and pets alike so long as it's not consumed.
According to the ASPCA:
Spider plants are safe for cats, dogs, and other animals.
However, cats often chew spider plants to settle their stomachs; hence, you may still find them vomiting now and again.
But even though spider plant is safe for cats and dogs, you still want to prevent them from ingesting the plant as it can still result in some health issues to your pets.
What Can Spider Plant Do To Cats?
Symptoms of ingesting the leaves include drooling, vomiting, and loss of coordination. So be sure to keep this plant away from your pets so as not to put them at risk!
Spider plants contain chemical substances that are somewhat related to opium. While it’s considered safe, these substances can actually lead to stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Because of this, it’s best to keep cats, dogs, and other pets away from spider plants to avoid any toxicity from the plant. Just like humans, cats are different from one another and these plants will have different effects on different cats.
How To Protect Your Pets From Spider Plant Ingestion
Keep plants out of reach from curious pets, especially if they are children and prone to putting things in their mouth.
Spider plant is a natural source for potassium that could be harmful or fatal when ingested by cats in large quantities.
Cats need only half the amount of potassium humans do; too much can lead to fatal heart arrhythmia.
If you grow spider plant, be sure not to fertilize with potassium fertilizer and avoid watering the plants in warm weather when cats are most active.
Also, spider plants are usually found in hanging baskets in most homes; hence, another way of keeping them away from your pets is to keep them as high as possible so it becomes out of reach from your cats.
In other words, keep them away from places where cats can easily climb, such as furniture or windowsills. You also want to do the same with any other potentially threatening plant such as philodendron.
Conclusion | Is Spider Plant Poisonous To Cats?
Is spider plant safe for cats? Well, you already know that spider plants are safe for cats, but if your cat likes to chew on leaves and flowers then discourage them from doing so by sticking a fork in the soil.
It’ll also be wise to always consult with your vet before choosing any houseplant for your home to ensure the particular plant is safe for your pets.
Recommended Readings:
- How To Save a Dying Spider Plant
- Is Red Creeping Thyme Safe for Cats?
- Is Irish Moss Safe for Dogs?
- Is Bugleweed Poisonous To Cats?
- Is Bougainvillea Toxic to Cats?
