If you’re a cat owner and a plant lover, you probably already know that cats and houseplants don’t always mix well. Cats are curious creatures, and many of them have a natural inclination to nibble on foliage, especially when they’re indoors.
One popular houseplant that cats seem to love is the spider plant. But what happens when your feline friend takes a liking to your hanging basket of greenery? Is it safe for cats to eat spider plants? And if your cat does indulge, will your plant survive the experience? Let’s investigate.
Why Do Cats Eat Spider Plants?
Cats are naturally drawn to plants, and there are a few reasons why they might be attracted to your spider plant in particular.
- One possible explanation is that spider plants are safe for cats to eat (more on that in a bit), and cats may instinctively seek out foliage to munch on when they’re feeling sick or simply looking for a snack.
- The long, slender leaves of spider plants are similar in shape to blades of grass, which is a natural part of a cat’s diet.
Are Spider Plants Poisonous to Cats?
The good news for cat owners is that spider plants are generally safe for feline consumption.
Although some sources claim that spider plants are mildly hallucinogenic for cats, there is no scientific evidence to support this. In fact, the ASPCA lists spider plants as non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
How Can I Stop My Cat from Eating My Spider Plants?
If you’re tired of your kitty chowing down on your spider plant, there are a few things you can try to discourage the behavior.
- Keep your spider plant out of your cat’s reach, such as by placing it on a high bookshelf or hanging it from the ceiling.
- Offer your cat an alternative plant to nibble on, such as catnip or cat grass.
What Other Houseplants are Attractive to Cats?
Spider plants aren’t the only houseplants that cats may be drawn to. Other plants with attractive foliage or fragrant blooms include spider ivy, Easter lilies, and African violets.
It’s important to note that many common houseplants are poisonous to cats, so it’s a good idea to do your research before bringing new greenery into your home.
My Cat Ate My Spider Plant: What Should I Do?
So what should you do if your cat ignores your attempts to keep them away from your spider plant and snacks on the leaves anyway? Is it safe for cats to chew on spider plant leaves? Will your plant recover? Let’s explore these questions.
Is It Safe for Cats to Chew Spider Plant Leaves?
As we mentioned earlier, spider plants are non-toxic to cats. That being said, if your cat eats a large amount of spider plant leaves, they may experience some digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Will My Spider Plant Grow Back After Being Eaten by My Cat?
If your cat ate your spider plant, don’t worry – there’s a good chance that it will survive the experience and even grow back. Spider plants are hardy and resilient, and their leaves can grow back quickly if they’re given the proper care.
If your cat continues to eat your plant on a regular basis, it may stunt its growth or weaken it over time.
Are Spider Plants Hallucinogenic for Cats?
Despite what some people may believe, there is no evidence to suggest that spider plants have any psychoactive effects on cats.
While some cats may enjoy chewing on the leaves and may appear to be “high” or relaxed afterwards, this is likely due to the act of chewing itself, rather than any chemical properties of the plant.
Tips for Cat Owners with Houseplants
If you’re a cat owner who loves houseplants, it’s important to take a few precautions to keep both your furry friend and your greenery safe and healthy. Here are some tips:
What Are Some Houseplants That are Safe for Cats?
Some examples of houseplants that are safe for cats include Boston ferns, bamboo palms, and African daisies.
It’s always a good idea to check with your veterinarian before introducing any new plants into your home.
Should I Keep Houseplants Out of My Cat’s Reach?
As we mentioned earlier, keeping your houseplants out of your cat’s reach is one way to prevent them from nibbling on the leaves.
This may involve getting creative with placement, such as by using hanging baskets or tall plant stands.
How Can I Discourage My Cat from Eating My Plants?
In addition to offering your cat alternative plants to chew on, you can also try spraying your plants with a bitter-tasting deterrent spray, such as sour apple or cayenne pepper spray.
Another option is to place a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil on a cotton ball and place it near your plants, as cats tend to dislike these scents.
Spider Plants and Cats: A Feline Love Affair
Despite their reputation as plant-eating pests, cats and houseplants can coexist peacefully with a little bit of effort and foresight.
In fact, many cats enjoy having greenery in their environment, and some even like to lounge around in pots of soil or near their owner’s hanging baskets. So why do cats like spider plants, anyway? Let’s find out.
Why Do Cats Love Spider Plants?
As we mentioned earlier, cats are drawn to the long, thin leaves of spider plants because they resemble blades of grass, which is a natural and instinctual part of a cat’s diet.
Some cats may be attracted to the texture or smell of the foliage, which is soft and waxy and has a mildly sweet scent.
Can Cats Get High from Eating Spider Plants?
Despite claims to the contrary, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that spider plants have any sort of drug-like effect on cats.
While some cats may seem sleepy or relaxed after eating spider plant leaves, this is likely due to the act of chewing itself, rather than any psychoactive properties of the plant.
What Other Plants are Toxic to Cats?
While spider plants are safe for cats to eat, many common houseplants are toxic and potentially deadly to feline friends. Some examples include lilies, azaleas, and poinsettias.
If you’re unsure whether a particular plant is safe for your cat, be sure to check with your veterinarian before bringing it into your home.
Conclusion
What Should I Do If My Cat Ate My Spider Plant?
If your cat ate your spider plant, don’t panic! In most cases, the plant will recover and grow back just fine.
If your cat persists in eating your plants on a regular basis, it may be a good idea to take some preventative measures, such as keeping your plants out of your cat’s reach or offering them an alternative plant to munch on.
Where Can I Find More Information About Cats and Houseplants?
If you’re interested in learning more about the fascinating relationship between cats and houseplants, there are many great resources available online and in print.
The ASPCA’s website is a great place to start for information on pet safety, as is the book “The Houseplant Handbook” by David Squire. Happy planting – and happy cat-watching!
