The birch fig is often found as a houseplant in living rooms and offices, thanks to its evergreen leaves and undemanding care. In view of the abundant plant sap, cat owners rightly have doubts about its safety. Read here to what extent a Benjamini is poisonous for your house cat.
Is the Ficus Benjamini poisonous to cats?
The birch fig (Ficus Benjamini) is poisonous to cats because its sap contains toxins such as furocoumarins, flavonides, resin and rubber. Symptoms of poisoning include increased salivation, staggering, vomiting and diarrhea. In the worst case, paralysis and circulatory collapse can occur. If you suspect anything, you should consult a veterinarian immediately.
Highly toxic to cats and other pets
The white sap of a birch fig contains various toxins, such as furocoumarins, flavonides, resin or rubber. In this combination, even small amounts are enough to cause considerable discomfort to your furry companion:
- Increased salivation
- Staggering, disorientation
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
If the cat eats several Benjamini leaves, paralysis and even circulatory collapse can occur. These sequelae also occur in dogs, rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs. While the milky sap of a Ficus benjamina is non-toxic for birds in tropical habitats, this does not apply to domesticated budgies and other species. If they fly freely around the apartment, there should be no birch fig as a landing spot.
If you suspect, go to the vet immediately
If you observed that your cat was eating the leaves, please consult a veterinarian immediately. At the latest when the symptoms mentioned occur, a visit to the vet can be life-saving for your pet tiger. If possible, take a sample of the Ficus leaves with you. The more specifically the doctor can diagnose the poisoning, the more effective the treatment will be.
Tip
The birch fig is considered slightly poisonous for small children. If the toxins enter the stomach in large quantities, they trigger nausea and vomiting. Given the bitter taste, the little ones usually spit out a leaf in disgust. For reasons of caution, a Benjamini should still be placed out of the reach of babies and small children.
