Are Snake Plants Toxic To Cats? Here’s How To Protect Your Felines And Avoid Trouble

Are snake plants toxic to cats? The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is a popular houseplant. It’s easy to care for, not picky about conditions, and tolerates some neglect. Snake plants are also attractive, with long, blade-like, variegated leaves. However, those attractive leaves can make snake plants appealing to cats who like to nibble.

Are Snake Plants Toxic to Cats?

If you’re a houseplant fan as well as a cat owner, you probably know that some plants are toxic to cats, but are snake plants safe for cats? Perhaps not exactly poisonous, these plants can be quite toxic to cats because of specific compounds found in them. Saponins are compounds in snake plants that protect them from pests and infections. These compounds are toxic to many animals, including cats.

The saponins primarily cause gastrointestinal distress, so your cat has to eat the plant to experience the toxic effects. Snake plant toxicity is not severe. If your cat only ingests a small amount, she may not get sick or may get mildly sick.

What happens if a cat licks a snake plant? If your cat has only licked the plant, she is unlikely to experience any symptoms or they will be very mild.

Signs of Snake Plant Poisoning in Cats

You may notice right away that your cat ate some of your snake plants. If not, you might notice symptoms in your cat and wonder why. Check the cat’s mouth for plant matter. Check the plant for signs that a cat has nibbled on it.

When your cat consumes part of a snake plant, the toxins interact with cholesterol in the membranes of cells in the gut. This causes irritation and inflammation. The resulting symptoms may include:

• Drooling
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Swelling in the mouth or throat

What to Do if Your Cat Eats Snake Plant

Although the snake plant is not severely toxic, it’s still a good idea to contact your vet if your cat consumes it. They can advise you about what to do next and if the cat needs to come in for treatment.

There isn’t much you can do immediately to help your cat unless you catch them in the act. If you see your feline eating a plant, open her mouth and remove any plant material. Move the plant so she cannot access it again. Seek emergency veterinary care if your cat is struggling to breathe or has other severe symptoms and your vet is unavailable.

How to Prevent Your Cat Eating Snake Plants

Snake plants and cats don’t mix, so it’s best not to keep this plant if you have cats. Alternatively, you can take steps to prevent your cat from eating your snake plant.

The best way to protect the plant and your cat is to put it out of reach. You can keep it in a glass cabinet or in a high location the cat cannot access.

You might also consider spraying the leaves with a product designed to taste bad to cats. One bite and they likely won’t touch it again. If your cat can reach your snake plant, check it regularly for signs of nibbling.

Frequently Asked Questions