It’s a “tail” as old as time: you love your cat, but want to nourish your green thumb. The problem? Many beloved houseplants are toxic to cats and other pets. Even if your cat isn’t much of a nibbler, a single mishap can spell serious trouble.
With symptoms ranging from upset stomach to death, it’s critical to understand the risk a plant poses to your pet before bringing it into your home. We have a sneaking suspicion that you’re here to do your due diligence, so we’ll start with the good news: African violets are safe for your cat (woohoo!).
The ASPCA rates African violets as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and even horses! (Although, if you’ve got a horse eating your indoor houseplant, you’ve got bigger problems.) Now, even though taking a bite out of your violet doesn’t pose an innate threat to your cat, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know for a happy cohabitation-for both of your fuzzy companions.
Are African Violets Poisonous to Cats?
Moving up the list since 2019, caring for houseplants has become a popular hobby since the pandemic hit and many people have looked for new activities outside of their Netflix accounts. Cat owners often worry about plant toxicity, and it's a valid concern.
With so many plants posing risks, it's no wonder pet parents are on high alert. It's natural to fret over your feline's wellbeing. Curious cats might nibble on anything green, and the consequences can be dire with the wrong plant. African Violets stand out as a safe choice. The ASPCA confirms they're harmless to cats. No need to panic if your kitty takes a tiny taste.
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If you've been concerned about your cat getting into your African Violets, you can rest assured. They're a pet-friendly plant option. To keep harmony in a home with cats and African Violets, consider safe placement. Elevated shelves or rooms with a baby gate can keep your plants out of paws' reach.
Are African Violets Toxic to Cats?
The short answer, no. In fact, your cat is probably more dangerous to your plant. There aren’t harmful chemicals that make African violets toxic to cats. However, if Garfield gets a mouthful, he could still exhibit symptoms of a mild illness. His sensitive stomach can get thrown off by too much of something unfamiliar. (Have you ever done a juice cleanse? You’ll know the feeling.)
If your cat seems a little out of sorts, he’s probably not feeling well. Don’t panic! Keep an eye on his condition, and give the vet a call if the symptoms persist or get worse.
Is Fertilizer for African Violets Toxic to Cats?
The real risk to your cat comes from any chemicals your plant might be treated with. While African violets are not toxic to cats, their fertilizer can be. Similar to the plant itself, fertilizer ingestion is generally a mild irritant. But, if ingested over a prolonged period of time, it can lead to serious gastrointestinal issues.
To be on the safe side, keep a close eye on your plant (especially the flowers, those are kitty delicacies). Familiarize yourself with your cat’s behavior so you can spot any variations in demeanor before they become a major issue.
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Houseplant Pro Tip: If you buy your African violet from a grower, ask about the type of insecticide they use. While consumer-forward products generally don’t pose much of a risk, those used on a commercial scale are more likely to.
It is important to note that even if a plant is considered safe for pets, they are still not meant to be ingested. If you know your pet has adventured into one of your houseplants, especially if it is a known toxic plant, the first step is to call poison control. You will want to be ready to drive to your nearest emergency veterinary hospital, but poison control will be able to identify possible levels of toxicity and the best treatment path for the particular plant and the time it was ingested. Poison control are individuals who are experts in toxicities. The next course of action is of course driving to your emergency hospital. Every plant will have a different effect if ingested, and each pet will have a slightly different reaction based on their size and the amount ingested.
Care Tips for AFRICAN VIOLETS - 4 Keys to Success (What You Need to Know About African Violet Care)
How to Care for African Violets
African violets are common houseplants that are relatively easy to care for. They have soft and fuzzy leaves and produce pretty and dainty flowers. Aside from their quaint appearance and unique leaves, African violets are also popular because they’re pretty hardy if you know how to care for them. These plants can be enticing because of their soft leaves.
Bright, indirect light is the sweet spot for African Violets. Too much sun and they'll sulk, too little and they'll mope. Keep them cozy, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Water from the bottom up to avoid a spotted leaf fiasco. Let the soil dry out a bit before the next watering-think of it as a mini drought to encourage blooming.
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Humidity is their jam, so aim for a muggy 50-60%. African Violets need a well-draining soil mix; they detest wet feet. A balanced fertilizer is their version of a multivitamin; follow the label directions to avoid overfeeding. Overzealous with the plant food? Dead or yellowing leaves? Snip them off. It's not just about looks; it's about health. Think of it as giving your plant a haircut to remove the split ends. Remember, African Violets are like that low-maintenance friend who still likes a bit of attention.
How Do I Keep My Cat Away From My African Violet?
While African violets aren’t toxic to cats, it can still be an inconvenience to find bitten leaves or a turned-over pot caused by a curious cat. One of the best ways to protect your cat is simply to keep him away from your houseplants. What’s that, you say? Cats don’t like following directions? Well, then, try a few of these timeless tricks.
- Elevate and Separate
Prevent unwanted nibbles by keeping your African violet on a high shelf or cupboard. Make sure to check for any furniture your cat could climb on to reach it, and keep your plant happy by choosing a well-lit space.
- Distract! Distract! Distract!
Sometimes your cat is just dining on your houseplant because he’s bored or curious. Try distracting him with a cat toy (feathers attached to metal springs work great) or a scratch pad filled with catnip.
- No-Worry Nibbles
Give your plant-hungry cat something healthier to munch on. Catnip, silver vine, and cat thyme are all alternatives that are safe and healthy for your furry pal.
- Divide and Conquer
We get it, cats are persistent. Sometimes the best you can do is keep your cat out of rooms that have plants in them. Make a sunroom or well-lit bedroom your houseplant oasis and keep kitty on the other side.
- Call On “Foul” Play
Felines have very sensitive noses, and several smells will inspire your cat to abandon his plant-snacking mission. Try citrus peels, cayenne pepper, or diluted citrus oil. (Note: Citrus extracts are not safe for your cat.)
Cats and houseplants can be a risky combination. Curiosity can lead cats to chew on leaves or flowers, which for many plants, can be harmful. Symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea are telltale signs of ingestion of a toxic plant. Ingesting African Violets may cause mild stomach upset in cats, though they are not toxic. Skin irritation is unlikely but watch for unusual behavior post-contact. For peace of mind, place African Violets on high shelves or in cat-free zones. Observe your cat's behavior around new plants and be ready to intervene. Elevation is key. Hang African Violets out of paws' reach with stylish macramé hangers or wall shelves. Distraction is your second line of defense. A catnip plant or a pot of grass just for kitty can keep them from eyeing your violets. Barriers can be simple yet effective. A baby gate for a room or a decorative fence around your plant display area might just do the trick. Inspect your plants. Regularly check for signs of nibbling and make sure no harmful chemicals are within licking distance. Cleanliness is next to catliness. Engagement is crucial. A bored cat is a plant's nemesis. Remember, African Violets are non-toxic, but it's about keeping the peace between your green and furry friends.
One of the best ways to protect an African violet is to place it in a spot that’s difficult to reach. This can be a challenge, as many cats are agile and able to squeeze into tight spaces. Try to place the plant on a narrow surface that doesn’t provide enough room for your cat to stand on. One deterrent is cat tape. Cats don’t like the feeling of this tape on their paws, but it doesn’t do any damage to them. If your cat just likes chewing on all kinds of plants, you can try growing some cat grass.
Know the Symptoms
Although your African violet is not toxic to cats, pets are experts at getting where they shouldn’t be. The range of symptoms is why it is essential to know the toxicity of any plant you bring into your home. If your cat is showing any of these symptoms, or if you suspect his health is in danger for any reason, contact your vet or pet poison control hotline immediately.
Different kinds of plants carry a variety of toxins that can be harmful to cats. Your cat’s clinical signs will vary depending on the type of toxin that they ingest.
Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants
Here is a short list of plants that are considered toxic and non-toxic to cats.
| Toxic Plants | Non-Toxic Plants |
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Non-Toxic Plants for Cats
Want to start a whole menagerie of non-toxic plants? Check out this toxic/non-toxic plant list from the ASPCA for more plants toxic to cats and plenty that are safe for kitty. You can be a cat lover and plant lover at the same time. While many common houseplants can be toxic to cats, there are many non-toxic options.
- African violets (Saintpaulia spp) are not only safe, but they also produce beautiful flowers that you will love having in your home.
- The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) has ribbon-like long leaves with lighter stripes.
- This beautiful flowering plant (Sinningia speciosa) is safe for dogs and cats and may remind you a bit of the African violet.
- If beautiful red flowers are your preference, the lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus humilis) is a great choice.
- The purple waffle plant (Hemigraphis alternata) is another safe option. This unique plant has green leaves that fade to purple.
- This beautiful plant (Calathea insignis) with uniquely dark stripes is a great addition to a home with pets.
- Haworthia is a little succulent that's non-toxic to dogs and cats.
All these plants are safe for cats and dogs. Some non-toxic plants have similarities to toxic ones. Many varieties of true ferns are safe for your pets, like the Boston fern or the maidenhair. However, some "fake" ferns may actually be toxic, like the asparagus fern, which isn't a fern at all. You also want to be careful with herbs, succulents, and palms, since some are safe while others can be very poisonous. The same can be said for daisies (which are toxic to dogs and cats) while African daisies aren't.
Houseplants can add more color and liveliness to a room. Adding plants can help with the air quality and ambiance in your home. Plants are a great way to create a calming, peaceful atmosphere. You can enhance that effect with a comfy bed for your pet.
