(E.B.W.) Critter Corner: July 15/2020

Thursday, July 16, 2020

July 15/2020

Feature:
Which Flowers & Plants Are Safe for Cats?

“...'While any plant material can cause mild stomach upset, some plants are much more dangerous,' says Tina Wismer, medical director at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.

It’s also important for cat parents to know that some plants & flowers that are relatively safe for dogs can be deadly for cats. 'Members of the Lilium (true lilies) or Hemerocallis (day lilies) can cause kidney failure in cats, but only mild stomach upset in dogs,' says Wismer.

If you’re considering an eco-conscious revamp of your home décor, check this list to find out which flowers & houseplants are safe for cats.

Flowers That Are Safe for Cats
Avoid bringing dangerous flowers into your home with this list of safe flowers for cats:
Alstroemeria
Asters
Freesia
Gerber Daisies
Liatris
Lisianthus
Orchid
Roses
Snapdragon
Statice
Sunflowers
Wax Flower (Madagascar Jasmine)

Air-Purifying Plants That Are Safe for Cats
Houseplants cleanse the air we breathe from toxins found in many household products—formaldehyde, benzene, & carbon monoxide, just to name a few.

Here are some air-purifying plants that are also safe for cats:
Areca Palm
Bamboo
Basil
Boston Fern
Cilantro
Dill
Dwarf Date Palm
Friendship Plant
Hens and Chicks
Lady Palm
Lemon Balm
Old Man Cactus
Painted Lady
Reed Palm
Rosemary
Sage
Shrimp Cactus
Spider Plant (Spider Ivy)
Venus Flytrap
Zebra Haworthia

Even Safe Plants Can Pose Dangers to Cats
Wismer suggests that you keep these plants & flowers out of reach of curious cats even though they are considered safe, because there are other dangers to watch out for.

Most cut flowers come with a powdered flower food to keep them fresh, & this can be toxic to cats. Even the vases could pose a problem. 'Cats especially like to drink from vases, so make sure the cat cannot overturn heavy vases & hurt themselves,' Wismer adds...

Karen Lawrence, director of The CFA Foundation & manager of the Feline Historical Museum, suggests using hanging planters as a way to keep plants out of the reach of your pets.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats a Plant That Might Be Poisonous
If your cat nibbled on a flower or plant, and you are unsure whether it may be toxic, call your emergency vet...

You should call even if you just suspect that your cat might have eaten part of a plant or flower."