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Spider plants are very popular to keep outside or as house plants. They’re very pretty and easy to grow. However, cats may sometimes become interested in the plants and try to eat them. But what happens if a cat eats a spider plant?
Has your cat eaten a spider plant? Are you worried the spider plant may make your cat sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your cat eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about spider plants and whether they can make a cat sick. Let’s get started!
What is a Spider Plant?
The Spider Plant is a pretty houseplant (or outdoor plant) that’s also called Chlorophytum comosum. They are one of the most adaptable and easiest plants to grow, even if you have a brown thumb! They are happy to grow in a wide range of conditions and rarely have problems unless they don’t receive enough water.
These plants are called “spider plants” because they strongly resemble large, green spiders! The plants have long, thin green striped leaves that usually grow over the edge of the pot. Spider plants also put off “arms” that contain baby plants. These can be planted to start new plants! The arms even have pretty white flowers at times.
While spider plants are pretty and considered safe, what happens if a cat eats one?
Spider Plants & Cats
The good news is that spider plants are not toxic to cats! However, they could still make a cat sick. Eating a small amount of spider plant can cause some mild GI upset.
However, there’s also the possibility of a cat eating a large amount of spider plant. In that case, the plant can cause an obstruction in the cat’s digestive tract. This is a dangerous condition that can cause death if it’s not treated.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Spider Plant Ingestion in Cats
You may notice these symptoms if your cat eats spider plants:
Mild symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
More severe symptoms (may indicate a GI blockage):
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain & swelling
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Hiding
If your fur baby has diarrhea and vomiting that last longer than 24 to 48 hours, call the vet. These symptoms could cause a cat to become dehydrated. The vet has medications that can stop these symptoms and help your cat feel better.
On the other hand, if your cat develops more severe symptoms, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Treatment of Spider Plant Ingestion in Cats
For cats with diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration, the vet will give your fur baby medications to stop diarrhea and vomiting. They may also prescribe other medications to soothe your cat’s stomach. In addition, your fur baby will also need an IV to help her rehydrate.
If your cat has a blockage, the vet may need to perform emergency surgery to remove it safely. The vet will also repair any damage the blockage may have caused.
The prognosis is best for cats who receive prompt medical treatment after eating spider plants. So, if your cat likes to eat spider plants, it’s best to keep these out of her reach or in a room she can’t access. You’ll both be happier for it!
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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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