LoveToKnow Cats:AllComments

From LoveToKnow Cats

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Hi Linda,

Cats sometimes use plants to self-cleanse, but you have to be careful as so many plants are toxic to cats. All of my cats eat indoor plants. I've never been able to keep them, but like you I prefer the cats to the plants. I would suggest that you try the grass, but I also would not replace the indoor plants for now. Cats are unusual creatures. It's possible that she just realized they could be eaten, but I would keep an eye on her to be sure there isn't any other underlying health issues. If you notice something like lethargy or change in eating or drinking habits, then a trip to the vet might be in order.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

I have an indoor cat who has suddenly, after six years of being around all my plants, gone absolutely crazy in eating and destroying a good five plants within a matter of only 2-3 weeks. Kia (my cat), is obviously more important than the plants...they can be replaced, SHE can't!!! If I buy some type of cat grass from the pet store do you think that would help, and if so, what type would be best? Do you think that there may also be some psychological issues going on with her? She does not seem to have changed in her behavior, but I am at wits' end with trying to figure this out and get some sound advice. Thank you so very much for your time and help. Sincerely, Linda and, of course Kia!!!!

-- Contributed by: Linda

Hi Becca,

She may not have ingested enough to cause serious problems. A cat will often throw up Baby's Breath too, which keeps them from ingesting too much. For some reason, most cats seem to want to smell and eat this plant, which can cause problems.

However, any time your cat eats a poisonous plant, you should call your veterinarian. He or she may want to see the cat or may just give you a list of symptoms to look out for. Do not give the cat any over-the-counter medications to induce vomiting as these can harm your cat.

Also, if the cat becomes lethargic, can't stop vomiting or has tremors, take her to the vet (emergency if necessary) immediately.

-- Contributed by: LoriSoard

How poisonous IS Baby's breath, because on valentine's Day my cat was chewing on some...she seems fine now..

-- Contributed by: Becca

On the subject of poisonous plants, I have chosen to decorate my house with many silk plants, but my cat (who is a long-hair either Maine Coon or a mix of Himalyan and Siamese or some such breed-she has those short stubby legs and huge tail) for some reason likes to chew on the silk greens. I can't monitor her 24/7 and I want to know if she chews and ingests some of the silk greens, will it harm her? Thanks

Hi Kathy, although silks can be a good alternative, some cats don't seem to be able to resist them either, as you've already found. It's difficult to say if eating some of the material would harm her because it depends on what was in the dyes used to color the plants. Do you know if they were made in China? There have been a number of problems with lead in their products, so this is something worth checking out. My second concern would be over ingesting any floral wire. Some silk plants have floral wire that allows you to adjust the way the leaves hang. The wire is thin enough to chew through, and could lead to an internal puncture if swallowed.

I suggest that you try spraying bitter apple spray on one of your silks, and then set it where your cat can easily have at it. If she doesn't like the taste and decides to leave the plant alone, you have your solution. If the spray doesn't deter her, it might be better to relocate the plants.

Thanks for your question, and best of luck in your situation.

-- Contributed by: Kathy
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