Having pet insurance helps ensure you can afford vet costs for your furry friend, but the best way to keep your cat’s expenses low is by keeping them healthy in the first place. If you have a green thumb, having cat-friendly plants is essential for keeping your kitty safe while still enjoying nature in your home. By exploring the basics of pet-friendly plants, you can forego expensive vet visits and make sure your feline friend can safely explore your home.
The Importance of Choosing Cat-Friendly Plants
Many people don’t realize that some common houseplants are actually toxic to cats. If your cat gets too close, they could deal with serious complications. Certain houseplants can make your cat sick if they ingest part of the plant or even just inhale the pollen. In some cases, the effects can even be fatal. Cats are curious creatures, so it’s critical to keep these plants out of your home entirely to avoid any accidents. Even if you have a helpful pet insurance plan to pay for medical expenses, you want to be proactive about creating a safe environment for your kitty.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have any greenery in your house. There are plenty of pet-safe plants that won’t harm your animals if they decide to investigate.
Top 5 Cat-Friendly Plants for Your Home
Looking for plants that are safe for cats? If you want to turn your home into a lush oasis without worrying about your cat getting sick, check out the following popular options.
1. Spider Plants
Spider plants are resilient houseplants that grow easily under almost any conditions. They also purify the air and are completely safe for cats.
2. Parlor Palms
Parlor palms have large, dramatic fronds that make them perfect for interior decor. They should be kept out of direct sunlight and watered regularly.
3. Orchids
If you want to feature a vibrant flower in your home, consider getting an orchid. These pet-safe flowers can be challenging to care for, but they have a beautiful bloom that can accent any room.
4. Burro’s Tail
The Burro’s Tail succulent can thrive with just a little water and sunlight. Their funky shape makes it easy to add a bit of personality to your home.
5. Money Trees
Money trees are resilient, tough plants that also grow quickly. Plus, they’re known for attracting good luck.
Top 10 Menaces: Plants Harmful to Cats
If you’re looking for options that are safe for cats, be sure to avoid these 10 dangerous options.
1. Lilies
Lilies are some of the most dangerous plants for felines. The entire plant is toxic, from the leaves to the pollen, and it can cause kidney failure in your cat. It’s best to stay away from all varieties of lilies, including peace lilies and cut lilies in flower bouquets.
2. Pothos
Pothos are gorgeous hanging houseplants, but they can poison your furry friend. There are plenty of other vibrant, leafy green options you can choose instead.
3. Poinsettia
Poinsettias are extremely popular around the holidays due to their gorgeous red leaves. However, they have a toxic sap that can make your cat sick.
4. Snake Plants
If your kitty takes a bite out of your snake plant, they could get sick. They primarily cause gastric problems, but they can also cause more severe complications.
5. Hyacinth
Hyacinths have beautiful floral bulbs, but they’re also poisonous to cats. A small amount can cause mild issues, but if your kitty ingests a large bulb, they could have more serious symptoms.
6. Aloe
Aloe vera may have health benefits for humans, but it’s not safe for cats. Look for other succulent-like houseplants that aren’t poisonous to get a similar look in your home.
7. Ivy
Many different types of ivy, including English ivy and sweetheart ivy, are not pet-safe. This can be particularly dangerous because cats may be attracted to the hanging leaves.
8. Asparagus Fern
Asparagus ferns are mildly toxic to cats. They can cause skin issues if your cat touches them and can also make your pet sick if they ingest the plant.
9. Tulips
Even if you know lilies are dangerous to cats, you may not know that tulips are in the lily family. As a result, they’re also toxic and can cause seizures, heart issues, and more.
10. Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera plants are extremely popular because of their lush tropical vibe. However, they have poisonous calcium oxalates that can make your cat seriously sick.
Emergency Preparedness: What To Do If Your Cat Ingests a Toxic Plant
Part of being a responsible pet owner is understanding what to do if your cat is accidentally exposed to a toxic plant. If you suspect your cat has been around toxic pollen or even ingested part of a leaf or petal, start by disposing of the plant to avoid further contact. Then, take your feline to a safe place and call your vet right away. Depending on the plant, they may advise you to come in right away or monitor your pet for signs of poisoning. If your cat does need urgent medical attention, having a pet insurance policy in place can help you foot the bill.
Symptoms of Plant Poisoning in Cats
You may not always notice when your kitty gets into your foliage. Being aware of signs of poisoning can help you act quickly if you notice strange behavior in your pet:
- Throwing up
- Lethargic behavior
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drinking
- Irregular breathing
Whether these issues are signs of poisoning or another problem, it’s important to take them seriously and see a vet right away.
Why Pet Insurance Is a Must for Cat Owners
Pet insurance is important for any pet owner. Even when you’re vigilant about having a pet-safe home, accidents can still happen. For example, you may not realize you have a harmful plant in your home, or your cat could have healthcare needs completely unrelated to your houseplants. Pet insurance for cats ensures cost won’t be an issue if you need to take your furry friend to the emergency vet for treatment, regardless of the cause.
How To Get Started With Pet Insurance
Cats are naturally nosy and inquisitive. They love to explore and may even try nibbling on or licking things they come across in their journey through your home. Your best bet is to avoid plants that are toxic to cats, but if your cat is inadvertently exposed, call your vet. Pet insurance cane ease the cost of this type of emergency, as well as many others.
Freeway Insurance offers pet insurance solutions to make sure you can afford the best care possible for your feline friends. At Freeway, you can find affordable pet insurance plans to protect your pet if the unexpected occurs. To explore your options, head to your local Freeway Insurance office, go online for a free quote or call 800-777-5620.
