Rhipsalis is a type of cactus that is very easy to care for. Like all cacti, the cane cactus is not poisonous. However, it is often said that it contains toxins that are particularly toxic to cats.
Is rhipsalis poisonous to humans and animals?
Rhipsalis cacti are not poisonous to humans because they do not contain any toxins. It is not clear whether cats are dangerous, but most experts consider them to be harmless. Confusion with poisonous spurge plants should be avoided at all costs.
Rhipsalis is not poisonous
It is quite common to read that Rhipsalis is poisonous. That is not right. The cactus contains no toxins, so it poses no danger to humans.
The reason for the supposed toxicity is that rhipsalis is often confused with the spurge family. These are poisonous because the milky juice contains substances that can cause symptoms of poisoning. The liquid in the shoots of the rhipsalis, on the other hand, is water that the cactus stores in the branches.
It is therefore essential to make sure beforehand whether you are really keeping a non-poisonous Rhipsalis or a poisonous Euphorbia in your house.
Is there a danger to cats?
Whether rhipsalis poses a danger to cats is not sufficiently clear. However, most experts assume that the cactus is also harmless to four-legged friends.
However, cat owners should be careful and avoid caring for Rhipsalis species such as Rhipsalis baccifera or Rhipsalis cassutha or place the plant out of the reach of pets.
Do not consume plant parts
Even if the rhipsalis is assumed to be non-toxic, the shoots of the cactus should not be consumed. Therefore, do not simply leave cut branches lying around, especially if there are small children in the family.
Tip
Rhipsalis does not have prickly thorns. This is another reason why this cactus is very suitable for care in the home if there are children in the family.
