Cats are curious and playful animals that are often interested in houseplants.
However, not all flowers are safe for our furry friends. Some plants contain toxic substances that can cause poisoning, allergies or even death of the cat.
In this article, we will tell you about the five most dangerous plants for cats that are best not kept in the house.
Aloe
A plant that is good for humans can be dangerous for cats as it can cause severe food poisoning.
Aloe contains saponins and anthraquinones, which irritate the mucous membrane of the cat's stomach and intestines. Symptoms of aloe poisoning: vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, weakness, depression.
Narcissus
One of the most dangerous flowers for the cat family is narcissus - it causes respiratory depression and heart rhythm disturbances.
Tulip bulbs contain allergenic lactones. Symptoms of daffodil poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, convulsions, and collapse.
Geranium
Geranium is a beautiful and fragrant plant that decorates many balconies and windows. However, it is poisonous for cats. Geranium contains geraniol and linalool - essential oils that irritate the skin and mucous membranes of cats. Symptoms of geranium poisoning: vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, skin itching, swelling.
Hydrangea
Hydrangea is a lush and bright flower that pleases the eye with its inflorescences. But do not forget that it is also poisonous to cats. Hydrangea contains cyanide glycosides - substances that block the transport of oxygen in the body's cells. Symptoms of hydrangea poisoning: vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, suffocation.
Anthurium
Anthurium is a tropical plant with red or white spathe-like flowers and yellow spikelets. It looks very impressive and exotic, but it also poses a threat to cats.
Anthurium contains insoluble calcium oxalates - crystals that damage the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat and esophagus of a cat. Symptoms of anthurium poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, salivation, swelling of the lips and tongue, difficulty breathing and swallowing.
These are just a few of the plants that can harm your cat. There are over 400 species of plants that are considered dangerous to cats.
So before you buy a new flower or bring a bouquet from a store or from the street, make sure it is not on this list. If you are not sure of the name of the plant, it is better to consult a florist or a veterinarian.
Also try to keep plants in places inaccessible to the cat or use special means to repel animals. And most importantly - monitor the condition of your cat and at the first signs of poisoning, consult a doctor.
