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are zz plants cat friendly

by Eugenia Frami Published 3 years ago Updated 3 years ago

The Zamioculcas Zamifolia, aka ZZ Plant, is one of those “tough as nails” houseplants that can survive just about anywhere, even in extremely low light. Unfortunately, it also happens to make the list of poisonous houseplants, and all parts of the plant are considered toxic to humans and pets.Mar 27, 2017

Full Answer

Are ZZ plants poisonous to cats?

What Are The Symptoms of ZZ Plant Poisoning in Cats?

  • Oral pain
  • Decreased appetite
  • Drooling
  • Diarrhea
  • Pawing at their mouth
  • Vomiting
  • Swelling of the upper airway happens, making it hard to breathe, although it rarely happens.

Is ZZ plant toxic to cats?

Yes, the ZZ plant is mildly poisonous to cats, dogs and humans if directly ingested. Exposure to the plant can also cause minor skin and eye irritation. The toxicity of this plant is derived from the calcium oxalate crystals located in the sap. Is it true that ZZ plant is poisonous?

What indoor plants are toxic to cats?

What Plants Are Toxic to Cats?

  • Aloe Vera
  • Amaryllis
  • Arum Lily
  • Asian Lily
  • Asparagus Fern
  • Azalea. Toxic to: Cats, dogs, horses.
  • Baby's Breath
  • Barbados Lily. Note: The bulbs are the most poisonous part of this plant.
  • Begonia. Note: The tubers are the most toxic part of the plant. Note: Poisoning is caused mainly by the fruit and seeds.

Which flowers and plants are safe for cats?

Here’s a selection of other cat-safe plants:

  • African Violet
  • Baby Tears
  • Bird’s Nest Fern
  • Boston Fern
  • Bromeliad
  • Butterfly Palm
  • Calathea Orbifolia
  • Friendship Plant
  • Hoya
  • Orchid

More items...

What happens if my cat eats a ZZ plant?

If your cat swallows and ingests part of a ZZ Plant, it will suffer from nausea, stomach discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. The severity of these symptoms depends on how much of the plant is eaten; a little will only cause a mild stomach ache, whereas large quantities can cause several hours of diarrhea.

Why are ZZ plants not pet friendly?

The truth of the matter is that ZZ plants are poisonous, but not lethally toxic to pets. A pet that comes in contact with a ZZ plant may develop inflammation of the skin, eyes or mucus membranes. If your pet eats part of a ZZ plant, they will experience some discomfort, but should be absolutely fine in the end.

Is a ZZ plant OK for pets?

Unfortunately, this natural curiosity can be dangerous, resulting in side effects that can range from milder ailments such as gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, drooling, diarrhea) to more severe effects such as organ failure and in some cases, even death.

Are ZZ plants toxic to cats Aspca?

Are ZZ Plants Toxic To Pets? The short answer is yes, they are, to cats, dogs, and people. Like many other plants that make up the toxic pet list, ZZ plants produce calcium oxalates which is a serious irritant internally and externally.

Are Monstera safe for cats?

The Monstera Plant Can Be Toxic to Cats There is a substance inside the leaves and stems of the monstera plant, called calcium oxalate crystals, that is toxic to cats.

Is snake plant toxic to cats?

The plant: Snake plant However, it's toxic to cats, warns the ASCPA. Snake plants contain chemical compounds called saponins, which result in feline nausea, vomiting and diarrhea if consumed or chewed on.

What plant is good for cats?

21 Plants That Are Safe for Cats and DogsRattlesnake Plant. ... Spider Plant. ... Parlor Palm. ... Calathea Orbifolia. ... Ponytail Palm. ... (Certain) Succulents. ... African Violet. ... Bird's Nest Fern.More items...•

What palms are safe for cats?

Palms can be iffy for pets, but the parlor palm is considered non-toxic. Tall and elegant, this pet-safe plant thrives in indirect light and tolerates shadier spots too.

What plant is not toxic to cats?

Also known as ribbon plant or airplane plant, the spider plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs and will tolerate a wide range of light, moisture, and soil conditions.

Are aloe plants toxic to cats?

Aloe juice and pulp can be used to treat a variety of conditions in people, but it is highly toxic to cats. Keep aloe plants away from cats, like on your refrigerator or in your bedroom, and spray the plants with vinegar to make them less tasty to curious felines who find them.

Are Succulents toxic to cats?

Luckily, most succulents are considered non-toxic and are harmless to pets when ingested. Others contain skin irritants that can cause minor skin irritations, and some can cause mild symptoms when ingested.

Is Spider plant toxic to cats?

Unlike peace lilies and pothos, Chlorophytum comosum is one houseplant that can be safely nibbled by your kitties without requiring a trip to the emergency animal hospital. According to both the ASPCA and the National Capital Poison Center, aka Poison Control, spider plants are non-toxic to both cats and dogs.

How to tell if a cat is a ZZ plant?

Symptoms of ZZ Plant Toxicity in Cats. There are several signs and symptoms that you can look out for which indicate ZZ Plant toxicity in cats. In fact, if your cat does bite or swallow part of a ZZ Plant, you’ll likely know pretty quickly! The first sign will be that your cat is suffering from oral irritation.

What happens if a cat eats a ZZ plant?

If your cat swallows and ingests part of a ZZ Plant, it will suffer from nausea, stomach discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. The severity of these symptoms depends on how much of the plant is eaten; a little will only cause a mild stomach ache, whereas large quantities can cause several hours of diarrhea.

How to keep cats from scratching furniture?

Simply mix one part of white vinegar with two parts water and put it in a spray bottle . Mist the plant with this spray and your cat will keep its distance.

What is the smell that cats hate?

Mist the plant with this spray and your cat will keep its distance. Other smells that cats hate include chili, lavender, cinnamon, mustard, and rosemary. If you don’t want to use a homemade deterrent, there are also cat deterrent sprays that you can pick up from your local pet store which work in the same way.

What is a ZZ plant?

The Zamioculas Zamifolia, better known as the ZZ Plant, is one of the most popular houseplants around. They survive well even when neglected, can happily live in sunny spots or shady corners, and are pretty much indestructible. For any house plant beginners, busy workers, or poor gardeners, the Zamioculas Zamifolia appears to be a great choice.

How big do ZZ plants grow?

Some of these stems will grow straight upwards, while others curl over, and will grow to a maximum of around 3 feet in length. Flowering: Most owners will not see flowers on a ZZ Plant.

Can zamioculas be poisonous to cats?

Unfortunately, yes, they are! All parts of the Zamioculas Zamifolia are poisonous to cats when ingested or touched and this hardy houseplant isn’t the best choice if you have a feline. In fact, the ZZ Plant is poisonous to dogs and people too!

Is the ZZ Plant Really Toxic to Cats?

The ZZ plant is not on the list of any of the following reputable organizations and websites:

What Are the Symptoms of Plant Poisoning?

If you suspect your cat has chewed on your ZZ plant and you are worried about possible poisoning, watch for the following signs:

What if Your Cat Has Nibbled on Your ZZ Plant?

If your cat has chewed on the leaves, flowers, or stems of your ZZ plant, check with your vet to see if he is at risk. You can also contact the pet poison control center who can tell you what to do to prevent your animal from becoming very sick.

How to Keep Your Kitty Safe from Your ZZ Plant

Since prevention is better than cure, here are three ways to prevent your kitty from becoming ill from ingesting your ZZ plant:

Final Thoughts

The ZZ plant is not as toxic to cats as the internet seems to have us believe. On the other hand, the calcium oxalate crystals it contains could induce irritation of the mucous tissues and the GI tract, which would cause unwanted and annoying effects in your cat.

What is ZZ Plant?

Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly known as the ZZ plant, is a low-maintenance houseplant that contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause discomfort in animals, especially cats.

Can You Keep ZZ Plant Around Cats?

Yes, you can keep ZZ plants around cats but you must take precautions.

How To Maintain ZZ Plant?

Maintaining ZZ plant is fairly easy, just make sure you use well-draining potting soil, and your ZZ plant will thrive on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

For individuals who have cats, it is critical to choose a suitable location for your ZZ plant that is out of reach of them. For example, on a shelf, table (depending on the height), hanging from the ceiling, or any other location in your home where your children and cats cannot reach. Not all pets, however, remain on the ground.

Final Words

ZZ plants are without a doubt one of the best choices for a houseplant, particularly if you are just starting off with your collection. ZZ plants not only look great in any setting, but they also help to filter the air.

What Happens if Your Cat Gets into Contact with a ZZ plant?

Just like humans, the sap from the ZZ plant causes temporary discomfort and irritation when your cat gets exposed to it. The sap mainly irritates the eyes, mucus membranes, and bare skin of your cat.

How to Get Your Cat to Stop Eating Your ZZ plant

Cats love to explore and jump, which makes it challenging to keep toxic houseplants from their reach. It’s advisable to learn the names of all houseplants in your home and their toxicity levels.

Will A ZZ Plant Kill A Cat?

Though ZZ plants are toxic to cats, they are unlikely to cause significant harm or death when consumed. There are no known cases of cats that died due to ZZ plant poisoning.

Are ZZ Plants Cat Friendly?

Since ZZ plants aren’t cat-friendly, it’s advisable to keep them out of your cat’s reach. The plant is also not friendly to toddlers.

Which Plants Can Kill Cats?

Plants that are likely to alter or damage the function of your cat’s organs (such as the heart and kidney) include amaryllis, azaleas, and rhododendrons.

How Toxic Is A ZZ Plant?

The ZZ plant falls in the Araceae family, which comprises several poisonous plants. Its sap and leaves are toxic to both pets and humans.

Can Plants Kill Cats?

Though most plants are generally safe for cats, they may cause diarrhea and vomiting. If your cat exhibits abnormal symptoms after consuming a plant, call the animal poison control center or your veterinarian for life-saving help.

Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Cats? Can you grow them where they are near to your pets without any worries? Find out everything and more!

Do you have pets at home? Are you worried about your cat before you bring in a ZZ plant? Want to know – Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Cats? Let’s get into all the details!

ZZ Plant

ZZ plant, eternity plant, or emerald palm (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is an easy to grow, air-purifying CAM plant perfect for homes and offices. It features glossy, waxy dark green foliage and grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide at maturity, making it an ideal choice for large and small spaces.

Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Cats?

ZZ plants have calcium oxalate crystals in all parts, which is the same compound that causes kidney stones in humans. The broken leaves or stems emit sap that contains calcium oxalate crystals. This sap makes the ZZ plant harmful to cats, dogs, and humans when ingested or contacted with skin.

Treatment of ZZ Plant Poisoning in Cats

According to this report by Dr. Tina A. Wismer of ASPCA, blockage of the throat is rare in cats, and most issues of toxicity resolve in 24 hours. If your feline shows symptoms like skin allergy or irritation in the abdomen, scrotum, paws, and anal area. Then try the given solutions:

Conclusion

You can save your cats or pets from the ZZ plant by placing it in an area out of their reach or on high plant stands. Pick up dropped leaves and throw the pruned foliage in covered trash cans.

How to help a dog that ate a ZZ plant?

If you are suspecting that your pet has nibbled on a ZZ plant, check their mouth and remove any leftover pieces. Then help them drink fluids. Not every pet likes them, but cold treats can help out as well. Keep a close eye on your cat or dog in case they develop more severe symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea.

What is a ZZ plant?

Zamioculas zamiifolia or the ZZ plant is an absolute must-have for indoor gardeners. You can see its gorgeous green leaves in the majority of Instagram posts showcasing houseplant collections. Native to Africa, the ZZ plant is easy to maintain. It will thrive in low light conditions and is drought tolerant.

Why are my ZZ plants yellow?

If your ZZ plant has yellow leaves that are falling off, stop watering it right away. Additionally, aphids are attracted to the poisonous sap, and they could infest your plant.

What happens if you eat a ZZ plant?

If someone tries to eat any part of a ZZ plant, they will immediately feel pain and swelling in the mouth. The discomfort will be enough for a child to spit the plant out. The ZZ Plant. However, if a youngster swallows a piece of the plant, it will experience stomachache, cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Why is it important to keep a ZZ plant clean?

Keeping the plant clean is essential because it aids the photosynthesis. The rhizomes that make a ZZ plant survive so long without water simplify the propagation as well. All you need to do is separate rhizomes and place them into a smaller planter. You can also use cuttings to propagate the ZZ plant.

Can you put orange peels on a ZZ planter?

Of course, you can also place coffee or orange peels near the planter to discourage your pets from coming close. These are common pet repellants that should do the job. If these fail for some reason, try vinegar. It will not make your room smell good, but your cat or dog will keep their distance from the ZZ plant.

When did ZZ become popular?

Even though they have been around for quite a while, ZZ plants became popular in the 1990s when Dutch nurseries started growing the plant on a larger scale. Gardening enthusiasts quickly fell in love with this beautiful plant, and today it can be seen almost everywhere around the globe.

What is a rattlesnake plant?

Rattlesnake Plant. Calathea lancifolia. The Calathea family is all about texture and vibrancy. The rattlesnake plant’s crinkly leaves make it a unique addition to your indoor garden and its low maintenance factor makes it a nice addition to your schedule.

Can cats chew on plants?

Kittens and young cats especially love to chew on things they aren't supposed to.”. And remember, just because your plant is safe for your dog, doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s harmless for felines. So, before you make a trip to the nursery, browse our list of cat-friendly plants that are safe for your furry friend ...

Is a fern poisonous to dogs?

Some ferns are non-toxic to cats and dogs, while others could be poisonous. That’s why it’s important to check both the common name (like Staghorn Fern) and the scientific name (like Platycerium bifurcatum). In terms of maintenance, these guys are pretty easy going—with enough sunlight and water every one to two weeks, these wavy ferns will thrive.

Can a zebra plant go without water?

...Haworthia Zebra plants! These spiky, cacti-looking monsters are perfect alternatives to aloe plants. And they can also go for several weeks without water in case you’re the type of person who tends to forget to take care of your greenery ( raises hand ).

Is a bromeliad plant toxic to cats?

Oval-shaped, with dark-green striped leaves and red stems, this plant resembles a watermelon to the tee. While it won’t bear fruit for your home, it’s non-toxic to your cat and it also removes toxins from the air. 31. Bromeliad Summer.

Is a polka dot plant toxic?

Not only is the Polka Dot Plant non-toxic for your four-legged roommate, but it’s also pretty to look at. Keep its soil moist, make sure it gets bright to medium light and watch it bloom into a beautiful mound.

Is Majesty Palm safe for cats?

Bow down to the Majesty Palm, a palm from Madagascar that grows several feet tall. Its fronds are also concentrated towards the top of the plant, so even though it’s safe for cats, they’ll have trouble reaching up that high if they want to snack.

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