Cat owners know the topic: numerous plants in the household are poisonous to cats. It's best to find out exactly whether the houseplant in question can be dangerous to cats before you buy it. What about the Schefflera? Is it a poisonous houseplant?
Is Schefflera poisonous to cats?
Schefflera is mildly toxic to cats because it contains oxalate crystals that can damage the kidneys and bladder. However, it is rarely life-threatening because cats usually do not eat large quantities. Typical symptoms of poisoning are diarrhea, vomiting, salivation and loss of balance.
Slightly toxic to cats
The Schefflera is slightly toxic to poisonous for cats. It is the oxalate crystals contained in it that can cause problems for cats. They challenge the work of the kidneys and can lead to damage to them and the bladder. Radiation aralia is also toxic to humans.
Life-threatening danger – probably not
The radiant aralia does not pose a life-threatening danger. It is extremely unlikely that a cat will become fatally poisoned by this houseplant. Schefflera only becomes dangerous when larger quantities are ingested. However, cats usually do not consume such large quantities. Therefore: Don't panic! It is much more likely that kidney stones could occur after consumption.
Typical poisoning symptoms and first aid
If one or more of the following symptoms appear after eating the radiant aralia, you should consult a veterinarian and give your cat water as soon as possible:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Salivating
- Trembling
- balance disorders
- Tumbling
- Lose appetite
Safety precautions for a worry-free coexistence
Do you keep the Schefflera as a bonsai? Then you should not put them on the landing, on the floor of the terrace or anywhere else where cats have free access. More suitable locations are traffic lights, cupboards and unreachable shelves.
Tip
If your cat is not close to starving, it will hardly come to the idea of satisfying its hunger by eating the radiant aralia.
