Succulents are a group of drought-tolerant plants that have thick, fleshy leaves, stems, or roots designed to store water. They are popular indoor and outdoor ornamental plants because of their unique appearance and low maintenance.
Most succulents are not considered toxic and are a great choice for houseplants with cats.
If ingested, most of these succulents will only cause gastrointestinal upset. But these signs can be serious and require veterinary care to resolve.
Kalanchoe is the exception, as this succulent can cause more serious clinical signs.
Key takeaways
- Most succulents cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset in cats, but some varieties, particularly kalanchoe, can cause serious heart and neurological complications.
- Symptoms of succulent poisoning in cats may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, tremors, skin irritation, and abnormal heart rate, depending on the type of plant ingested.
- If your cat eats a succulent plant, contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline immediately and remove the plant to avoid further exposure.
Why are succulents toxic to cats?
Cats are curious and playful creatures. When plants are in their environment, they often explore it. This usually leads to scratching and chewing of the plant.
Trailing succulents, like string of pearls, donkey's tail, and trailing jade, have tendrils that hang over pots or creep along the ground, as well as small leaves. These characteristics make plants look like great toys for our cats.
Not all succulents have the same toxic principles or clinical signs when consumed. But all parts of succulents can be problematic.
Most succulents cause gastrointestinal signs of varying severity, including vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling when consumed.
Kalanchoe in particular can cause more serious symptoms. In addition to gastrointestinal signs, cardiovascular and neurological problems can occur if your cat eats it.
Most Common Poisonous Succulents
The most common succulent plants that are toxic to cats include:
Symptoms of Succulent Poisoning in Cats
Symptoms of succulent poisoning in cats may include:
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Trauma from thorns (cactus) which can cause redness, rashes, scratches or small sores on the skin
What to do if your cat eats a succulent
If your cat eats a succulent plant, first remove the plant matter from the environment so he can no longer eat the plant.
Expected clinical signs, level of concern, and recommendations depend on the type of plant. There is no home treatment available if a succulent is ingested by your cat, so you need expert help.
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If the identification is known, contact Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 or your veterinarian with the name of the plant to discuss expected clinical signs and recommendations for your cat.
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If the type of succulent plant is unknown, take a photo of the plant and contact the hotline or your veterinarian. They can help identify the plant and provide information on expected problems and treatment plans. If your cat needs to be seen by a veterinarian, Pet Poison Helpline will work with your veterinarian regarding your cat's specific needs.
If there are sores or injuries on the skin, the area should be cleaned with lukewarm water only.
Prevention of Succulent Poisoning in Cats
The best way to prevent succulent poisoning in your cat is to only have non-toxic varieties in your cat's environment.
Ideally, your cat should not have access to any plants, as even plants that are not considered toxic can cause serious gastrointestinal symptoms requiring veterinary attention.
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Other non-toxic plants include the American rubber tree, Christmas or Easter cactus, or friendship plant.
FAQs About Succulent Poisoning in Cats
Which Succulents Are Toxic to Cats?
Common poisonous succulents include aloe vera, kalanchoe, poinsettia, string of pearls, jade, and cacti. Each of these presents a different level of concern and potential symptoms.
Is it safe to have succulents indoors with cats?
It's relatively safe to have succulents indoors if you avoid those listed as poisonous.
There are many varieties of succulents that can only cause stomach upset if ingested. If your cat continually chews on a succulent plant, it is best to remove the plant to avoid a lingering stomach upset or move the plant to an area your cat cannot access.
Why does my cat keep eating my succulents?
Some cats are simply attracted to the flavor and texture of succulents. This is why it is important to ensure that the succulent or any plant you bring home is considered safe for your cat.
Which succulents are safe for pets?
Non-toxic succulents include:
Even these are not considered toxic; they can nevertheless cause gastrointestinal signs if ingested.
