Christmas cactus: Is it poisonous to cats and children?

Christmas cactus: Is it poisonous to cats and children?
Christmas cactus: Is it poisonous to cats and children?
Anonim

Christmas cacti are mildly poisonous plants. The plant poses little danger to adults. For children and especially cats, the risk of poisoning from Christmas cactus should not be underestimated.

Schlumbergera poisonous to cats
Schlumbergera poisonous to cats

Is the Christmas cactus poisonous to cats?

The Christmas cactus is slightly poisonous to cats because all parts of the plant contain a sap containing toxins. Ingestion can cause nausea and diarrhea in cats. As a cat owner, you should therefore place the Christmas cactus out of the reach of the animals and dispose of plant remains immediately.

The Christmas cactus is poisonous to cats

In all parts of the plant, the Christmas cactus contains a plant sap that contains poisonous components. Although the concentration is not so high that the poison has fatal effects, unpleasant side effects such as nausea and diarrhea can occur. However, this only applies if small children and cats eat parts of the plant.

If you suspect that your cat has feasted on parts of the Christmas cactus, contact your veterinarian to be on the safe side.

Cat owners should be careful when caring for Christmas cacti

Not all cats go after houseplants. However, if you have a very curious cat who likes to dig around in flower pots or nibble on plants, you should be careful. Place the Christmas cactus so that the cat cannot reach it. Maybe it would be a good idea to grow the cactus hanging in a hanging basket (€10.00 on Amazon).

You should also look for a cat-safe location if you keep the Christmas cactus outside in summer.

Never leave plant residue lying around. Once you have cut the Christmas cactus, put the cuttings away straight away. You should also pick up and dispose of fallen flowers straight away.

Tip

Christmas cacti are very robust and resistant to disease. Only with incorrect care and in an unfavorable location can fungal diseases, limp leaves and no flowers occur.