Cats occasionally are interested in houseplants, sometimes to the point of trying to eat them. Has your cat tried to eat your Chinese Evergreen? Then you may want to read this.
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Is Chinese Evergreen toxic to cats?
What is Chinese Evergreen?
Chines evergreen plants are tropical Asian plant that’s commonly used as a houseplant. In fact, these plants are extremely popular because they do well in low light and are easy to care for, even for those who don’t have a green thumb. What’s more, these plants even produce small, white flowers that look something like the flower you see on a peace lily.
Chinese evergreen plants are also commonly called by these names: Aglaonema, diamond boy, emerald boy, moonlight bay, stripes, Philippine evergreen, poison dart plant. They’re scientific name is Aglaonema spp.
Are these plants toxic to cats?
Chinese Evergreen is Toxic to Cats
Unfortunately, Chinese evergreens are toxic to cats. This is due to the substance they contain, which is insoluble calcium oxalate. This substance is a type of crystal, which is created by the plant as a defense against insects that eat plants.
When the crystals are ingested, right away they pass into the oral tissues and cause pain, burning and irritation. They can also cause irritation of the digestive tract. And in some rare cases, calcium oxalate crystals can cause swelling of the upper airway, which can make breathing difficult.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Chinese Evergreen Toxicity in Cats
You may notice these symptoms if your cat’s eaten some Chinese evergreen:
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting
- Oral irritation
- Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or lips
- Difficult swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
If you know or suspect your cat has eaten Chinese Evergreen, then you should call the vet right away. If your cat is having breathing difficulties, then this is a medical emergency.
Treatment for Chinese Evergreen Toxicity in Cats
There’s no specialized treatment or antidote for Chinese evergreen toxicity in cats. The vet will perform a physical exam and may also do lab work. After this, they will treat the cat’s symptoms and remove any part of the plant that may remain in the cat’s mouth. In addition, medications may be used to help with vomiting, pain, and manage breathing difficulties.
In most cases, cats completely recover with no ill effects.
If your cat seems to have a penchant for eating Chinese evergreen plants, then it’s a good idea to move the plant to a space your cat isn’t able to access. Just to be on the safe side!
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Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
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