The bromeliad plant is a popular houseplant known for its colorful foliage and exotic appearance. But is this tropical plant actually poisonous to cats? As a cat owner it’s important to understand which plants can pose a danger to your feline companion. In this article we’ll explore the toxicity of bromeliads for cats and provide tips for keeping your pet safe around houseplants.
Bromeliads are a family of flowering plants that are native to the tropical Americas There are over 3000 species of bromeliads, including popular houseplants like the flaming sword plant, scarlet star, and earth stars
Bromeliads are epiphytic plants, meaning they grow on other plants and objects, rather than rooting in soil. They have stiff, waxy leaves arranged in a rosette pattern and are often vibrantly colored. The center of the rosette collects water and debris, providing moisture and nutrients to the plant.
These tropical beauties are prized for their unique foliage and long-lasting blooms. Their exotic look makes them a coveted houseplant. But does their visual appeal come at a cost for cat owners? Let’s find out.
Are Bromeliads Toxic to Cats?
The majority of bromeliad plants are non-toxic to cats. Most cats that nibble on a bromeliad may experience minor GI upset like vomiting or diarrhea. As long as the cat hasn’t ingested a large quantity, these effects are temporary.
However, there are a few bromeliad varieties that are toxic to cats and can cause more severe poisoning. The main toxic culprits are plants in the Cryptanthus and Guzmania genera.
Cryptanthus bromeliads, also called earth stars, contain raphides. These are tiny, sharp crystals of calcium oxalate that can puncture or irritate a cat’s mouth and digestive tract.
Guzmania bromeliads contain an unknown toxin that can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested by cats.
So while the majority of bromeliads don’t pose a serious risk for cats, Cryptanthus and Guzmania species can cause moderate to severe toxicity if eaten.
Signs of Bromeliad Poisoning in Cats
If your cat has ingested part of a toxic bromeliad variety, watch for these symptoms:
- Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Pawing at the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Hiding or isolating themselves
In severe cases of bromeliad poisoning, cats may experience muscle tremors or seizures. Immediately contact your vet if your cat shows these signs.
How to Keep Cats Safe Around Bromeliads
While most bromeliads don’t pose a serious risk to cats, it’s still smart to take precautions to protect your pet. Here are some tips for safely keeping bromeliads in a home with cats:
-
Place bromeliads out of reach of cats. Position them on high shelves or plant stands where your cat can’t access them.
-
Opt for non-toxic bromeliad varieties. Choose orchid-like vriesea or neoregelia bromeliads over Cryptanthus and Guzmania species.
-
Use bitter deterrent sprays made for houseplants. These impart a bitter taste to discourage nibbling. Reapply after watering.
-
Provide plenty of pet-safe plants for your cat to munch. Cat grass, catnip, and spider plants give them an alternative.
-
Keep cats away from toxic houseplants with citrus peels. Sprinkle peels around off-limits plants. Cats dislike the scent.
-
Remove and replace bromeliads if your cat keeps trying to eat them. Choose a different non-toxic plant instead.
What to Do if Your Cat Eats a Bromeliad
Accidents happen. If you catch your cat nibbling on or ingesting parts of a bromeliad, take action right away:
-
Gently wipe any plant debris or sap from your cat’s mouth with a soft cloth. Avoid letting them lick it off.
-
Identify the bromeliad variety if possible. This helps assess toxicity.
-
Monitor your cat closely for any symptoms of plant poisoning over the next several hours.
-
Contact your vet, especially if you know the plant is a toxic Cryptanthus or Guzmania variety. They can advise treatment.
-
Induce vomiting at home if your vet recommends it. Use 3% hydrogen peroxide given orally by syringe or dropper.
-
Bring a sample of the plant to your vet appointment. This aids in determining toxicity.
With prompt action, most cats recover fully from minor bromeliad poisoning. But don’t delay calling your vet if symptoms concern you.
Pet-Safe Bromeliad Alternatives
If you want to err on the side of caution, avoid Cryptanthus and Guzmania bromeliads. Here are some colorful, pet-safe bromeliad alternatives:
-
Vriesea – Known as flaming sword plants, these have striking bi-colored foliage with tall bloom spikes.
-
Aechmea – Urn-shaped plants with lush, wide leaves and vibrant pink blooms. The A. fasciata is a popular choice.
-
Neoregelia – Heart-shaped leaves blushing with red, purple, or bronze at the center. Grow compactly.
-
Billbergia – Tube-shaped plants with long, graceful leaves. Produce tall flower spikes.
-
Tillandsia – Air plants with curved, fleshy leaves. Require no soil and attach to mounts.
Are Other Houseplants Toxic to Cats?
Bromeliads aren’t the only houseplant that can be dangerous for cats. Here are some other toxic varieties to avoid if you have a curious kitty:
- Lilies
- Sago palm
- Aloe vera
- Poinsettia
- Chrysanthemum
- English ivy
- Philodendron
- Snake plant
- Azalea
Research any new plants you bring home to ensure they are non-toxic. When in doubt, consult your vet about safety.
Create a Cat-Friendly Indoor Garden
There’s no need to avoid houseplants altogether if you have cats. The key is choosing non-toxic varieties and taking some basic precautions.
Here are some tips for creating a cat-friendly indoor garden:
-
Place fragile plants and toxic varieties out of reach of cats. Use high shelves or hanging pots.
-
Opt for sturdy plants with non-toxic foliage. Spider plants, ponytail palms, and parlor palms are good choices.
-
Use cat deterrents like citrus peels, pine cones, or repellent sprays to protect vulnerable plants.
-
Offer cat grass, catnip, and cat-safe flowers for them to nibble without risk.
-
Put away plant care products like fertilizers and compost that may contain chemicals dangerous to cats.
With smart plant selection and pet-proofing, you can have the best of both worlds – a lush indoor oasis and a safe environment for your cat.
The Bottom Line
Most bromeliad plants don’t pose a serious risk for cats and may cause only minor stomach upset if eaten. But varieties from the Cryptanthus and Guzmania genera can cause moderate to severe poisoning.
To keep your cat safe, stick to non-toxic bromeliad varieties and use deterrents to prevent nibbling. If your cat ingests a bromeliad, contact your vet right away. With smart precautions, you can safely decorate your home with pet-friendly bromeliads.
Plants That Are Toxic to Cats!!
FAQ
Are bromeliad poisonous to cats?
Bromeliad. Bromeliad plants are ideal for homeowners who don’t want a plant that requires lots of care; they thrive with bright light and humidity. They are non-toxic to animals and can even be grown using soil-free methods, which is perfect for pet owners who want to avoid a cat or dog digging in the dirt.
Is the bromeliad plant poisonous?
Bromeliads are considered to be safe and non-toxic. They are nonpoisonous to humans and other animals, and can act as a barrier in front of any toxic houseplant like philodendrons. If an animal munches on bromeliads for too long, nausea and vomiting may occur.
What is the most poisonous plant for cats?
Lily of the valley is one of the most poisonous plants to cats and dogs.
Are dianthus plants poisonous to cats?
The list of toxic plants available from the Animal Poison Control Center and the ASPCA does list Dianthus caryophyllus as a plant that is toxic to cats. As far as the parts of a plant that are toxic, we know that the seed is as well as the foliage if consumed in large amounts.
Is Bromeliad toxic to cats?
One interesting trend related to bromeliad toxicity to cats is the rise in pet-friendly plant care products. Companies are now producing pet-safe fertilizers, pesticides, and other plant care products that are free of harmful chemicals that could be toxic to pets.
Are bromeliad plants poisonous?
Although many species classify as bromeliad, none of them are poisonous or toxic to humans, cats, dogs, or other common indoor pets. The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) includes bromeliad plants on their non-toxic list. What Parts of the Bromeliad Plant Are Poisonous or Toxic?
Can cats eat bromeliads?
Even though bromeliads are not toxic to cats, you still don’t want your kitty to chew on them often for the plant’s and their tummy’s sake. If your cat eats the plant often or ingests a significant amount, it could cause an upset stomach. It could also eventually kill your plant.
Are there alternatives to bromeliads for cats?
There are several plant-safe alternatives to bromeliads for cat owners, including spider plants, air plants, cat grass, and catnip. These plants are non-toxic to cats and can be safely kept in homes with pets.
Are Houseplants poisonous to cats?
Many other great houseplants are easy to grow and don’t need much care. The various houseplant in the bromeliad family, Bromeliaceae, are safe to cats, i.e., not toxic or poisonous including genera like Tillandsia (air plants), Neoregelia, Cryptanthus, Guzmania, Aechmea and Vriesea that has various species of houseplants.
How do you keep a cat away from a bromeliad plant?
Use repellent sprays that are safe for the plant and your cat. Use coffee grounds at the base of the plant. This also helps fertilize the soil. Provide your cat with its own plant that is safe, such as cat grass. Plant your bromeliad outdoors.