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There’s no clear answer for why cats nibble on plants, but there are some theories. Cats may be attracted to plants because:
If your cat seems fixated on eating plants, have them examined by your veterinarian to rule out an underlying health problem.
But…are houseplants safe for your cat to eat?
While there are some houseplants that are completely safe for your cat to nibble on from time to time, there are many that are unsafe, toxic and even deadly.
True lilies of the Lilium or Hemerocallis genus are very toxic. Consuming only two or three petals, leaves, the pollen or even water from the vase is enough to result in severe kidney failure.
Easter lilies, popular at this time of year, unfortunately are a true lily and should not be brought into your home if you have a cat. Other true lilies include:
Are there cat-safe plants?
There are more unsafe plants for cats (dieffenbachia, foxglove, lily of the valley, kalanchoe, Japanese yew, etc.) than there are safe ones. Luckily, for everyone with a green thumb, there are a few cat-safe plants. Keep in mind that when ingested, any plant may cause some vomiting or diarrhea.
The following plants are generally safe for cats:
If you see your cat eating any part of a plant and you’re not sure if it’s safe, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435).
*Covered services vary by plan. Unlimited exams exclude specialty and telemedicine exams. Plan includes (i) one Specialty Care consult at a participating VCA Specialty Hospital and (ii) one waived fee (up to $300) for an emergency or specialty consult at a participating BluePearl Pet Hospital, per year. Fees will apply for other services or products provided, including emergency stabilization, treatment, diagnostic tests, medications, and hospitalization. Plan pricing requires 12-month commitment.
CareClub Memberships are preventive pet health care plans and not pet insurance.
CareClub Membership covers only the selected health care services and products which are specifically identified in the applicable CareClub Membership agreement.
VCA Animal Hospitals, BluePearl Pet Hospitals, and Banfield Pet Hospitals are affiliates of Mars Inc.
**Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.
Free First Exam only for new clients (including those not seen in 3+ years) and eligible existing clients adding a new pet. Limit two pets (dogs or cats only) per household. The exam includes a status check on weight, nutrition and general health, parasite discussion, dental check and vaccination overview only. Not valid toward any other services including: any specialty, emergency, telemedicine and/or urgent care veterinary services; boarding or grooming services; any diagnostics or treatments; or any vaccines, medications or retail items. Not to be combined with any other offer. Redeemable only at the VCA Animal Hospitals location listed. For pet owners who are aged 18 and older. No cash value.
Florida Residents: THE PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.
NJ Residents: First Exam Regular Price Range: $75 to $150. NJ Licensee: Anthony Loomis, DVM.
Free First Dose offer valid for new patients receiving a qualifying initial exam at participating VCA Animal Hospitals. Offer applies only where an eligible parasite prevention product included in the program is prescribed and dispensed during the visit, as determined by the attending veterinarian. Eligible products only; not valid toward other products or services. Limit two pets (dogs or cats only) per household. Not combinable with other offers. Must be 18 years or older. No cash value.
