There are sometimes seemingly contradictory statements in various sources regarding the toxicity of the dragon tree for cats and other small children. The fact is: there are actually toxins in the sap of the dragon tree, but their effect does not necessarily have to be dramatic.
Is the dragon tree poisonous to cats?
The dragon tree is poisonous to cats because all parts of the plant, especially the leaves and flowers, contain harmful saponins. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, and blood in the stool. To deter cats, offer fresh cat grass as an alternative.
These parts of the dragon tree are poisonous
Basically all parts of the dragon tree such as the leaves and flowers are poisonous. Although the poisonous plant sap also flows through the thin stem, this offers little potentially dangerous attack surface for cats and small children. The toxins contained are so-called saponins, which are actually contained in many different plants. Adults rarely run the risk of being poisoned by a dragon tree, as the bitter taste of the leaves prevents them from consuming them. On the other hand, small children with an even less developed sense of taste and animals such as cats, dogs, hares and rabbits can mistakenly nibble on the long leaves of the dragon tree.
This is how cats and other animals can be kept away from the dragon tree
Cats like to play with their paws on the long leaves of the dragon tree and then occasionally nibble, as domestic cats also rely on certain plant substances for digestion. You should therefore always offer your cats an alternative in the form of fresh cat grass. You can also place the dragon tree on the balcony or generally on an inaccessibly high wall shelf during the summer months.
If you have these symptoms, you should take your cat to the vet immediately
Many cats do not show any noticeable symptoms after occasionally nibbling on the dragon tree. However, if the leaves are consumed more often, the following symptoms can occur:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Blood in stool
If these symptoms occur, you should consult a veterinarian and take countermeasures against the suspected poisoning.
Tip
Even if cats generally can't really be trained, it can still be worth a try. Have a water gun or something similar ready near the dragon tree coveted by your unteachable cat. Then send a splash of water towards the dragon tree as soon as the cat messes with it. In some cases, this educational measure has an effect and the cats that are scared away turn their attention to other objects such as a pot of fresh cat grass.
