Keeping Cats Away from Fiddle Leaf Figs

A big concern for a lot of fiddle leaf fig owners—or potential fiddle leaf fig owners—is their toxicity to cats, dogs, and humans.

The bad news: Yes, fiddles are toxic to pets like cats and dogs, and also to people.

When cut, fiddle leaf fig leaves, stems, and trunks emit an irritating white sap that you definitely don’t want on your skin or in your digestive system!

The good news is that fig trees are only mildly poisonous, and while they can cause illness and oral irritation, throat irritation, and abdominal pain, ingestion won’t lead to very serious illness or death. A fiddle’s sap can also irritate or even blister the skin. (This is why it’s important to wear gloves when pruning or propagating your fiddle!)

If you have pets who might take a bite out of your fiddle’s leaves, here’s what you need to know and what to do if a pet ingests any part of your fiddle or gets the sap on its skin.

The fiddle leaf fig has become an increasingly popular houseplant in recent years. With its large, vibrant leaves that give any space a modern, stylish look it’s no wonder these trees have been surging in popularity. However for cat owners, having a fiddle leaf fig around poses some risks that need to be properly addressed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about safely keeping cats away from fiddle leaf figs.

Native to tropical rainforests, the fiddle leaf fig (scientifically known as Ficus lyrata) can grow up to 10 feet tall in its natural habitat. Indoors, these plants typically reach heights of around 6 feet Their most identifiable feature is the unique violin-shaped leaves that earned the plant its common name With the proper care, which includes ample sunlight, frequent misting, and well-draining soil, fiddle leaf figs can thrive for years in an indoor setting.

Dangers Fiddle Leaf Figs Pose to Cats

While stunning to look at fiddle leaf figs contain compounds that can irritate cats if ingested. The sap stems, and leaves contain irritating crystals called raphides made of insoluble calcium oxalates. If a cat ingests these, it can cause painful swelling and irritation in the mouth and throat. Drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing are common symptoms. In rare cases, kidney damage is also possible if a large amount is consumed. Even just getting sap on their skin can cause irritation.

Since fiddle leaf figs can pose a health risk, it’s crucial to take measures to keep curious cats safely away from these plants. Here are some of the most effective ways cat owners can fiddle-proof their homes:

Location, Location, Location

Place fiddle leaf figs in spots cats can’t access like on high shelves or plant stands. Areas out of your cat’s jumping reach are best.
Keep fiddle leaf figs in rooms with doors that can be closed like studies or bedrooms. This prevents access when unsupervised.
Avoid placing fiddle leaf figs in high traffic areas like living rooms where cats spend a lot of time.

Deterrents

Surround the base of the plant with pet-safe deterrents like citrus peels, pine cones, double-sided tape, or aluminum foil. Cats dislike the feeling on their paws.
Use a cat deterrent spray made with safe, natural ingredients around the plant’s leaves and soil. Citrus, lavender, and lemongrass are common deterrent scents.
Place decorative stakes or rocks around the soil to discourage digging. Smooth rocks are recommended to prevent scrapes on curious paws.

Training

If possible, use positive reinforcement to train your cat to avoid the plant. Reward with treats when they pass by without touching.
Provide plenty of cat-safe alternatives like scratching posts and toys to distract them from the plant.
Use a handheld water mister to gently deter your cat if they get too close. Never spray directly at your cat.
Apply double-sided tape to the floor around the plant’s perimeter. Cats dislike sticking their paws to it.

Pet-Friendly Alternatives

Choose cat-safe plants like spider plants, Boston ferns, or hoyas instead of fiddle leaf figs when possible.
Invest in artificial fiddle leaf fig plants or trees to get the look without the risk. High-quality fakes can be very convincing.

What to Do if Your Cat Ingests Parts of a Fiddle Leaf Fig

If you believe your cat ingested any part of a fiddle leaf fig, take action immediately:

Safely remove your cat from the area near the plant to prevent further ingestion.
Check for symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and swelling around the mouth.
Contact your veterinarian or emergency vet clinic right away for advice.
Your vet may recommend making your cat vomit or giving activated charcoal to minimize absorption of toxins.
Additional treatment like medications, intravenous fluids, or supplemental nutrition may be prescribed to support recovery.
Monitor your cat closely over the next 24 hours for any worrisome symptoms and provide supportive care as recommended by your vet.

With vigilance and by following these cat-safe practices, fiddle leaf figs and felines can peacefully co-exist in your home. Take the necessary precautions, and both you and your cat can enjoy the beauty of these stunning plants.

keep cats away from fiddle leaf fig

Which Plants Are Toxic?

Some plants that are very poisonous are azaleas, mistletoe, hydrangea, several lily varieties, oleander, and rhododendron, to name a few.

Fiddle leaf philodendron or horsehead philodendron (philodendron bipennifolium) is poisonous and sometimes gets confused with ficus lyrata, or fiddle leaf figs, because of its name.

Many common houseplants are actually toxic, so it’s best to do your research before selecting your indoor plants, especially if you have curious cats, dogs, or children at home. You can find the 20 most toxic houseplants in this article by Ben Hilton where he explains each toxic substance and how they can affect humans and pets. So it’s best to do your research before selecting your indoor plants, especially if you have curious cats, dogs, or children at home. There are also plenty of beautiful, easy-to-care-for houseplants that are also easy to find. You could fill your whole home with lovely, non-toxic plants so you’ll never have to worry about your pets or kids accidentally ingesting them.

Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Toxic to Other Pets?

Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Poisonous to Cats, Dogs, or Other Pets?

Yes, fiddles are toxic to other animals you might have as pets such as birds, rabbits, rats, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, etc. Keep your fiddles out of reach of all pets if possible, or choose a different plant altogether.

Symptoms of poisoning from fiddle leaf figs are fairly similar for most pets. Watch for signs of skin irritation like excessive biting or scratching at the skin or eyes. Vomiting, diarrhea, and significant changes in eating and drinking habits are also consistent signs that something’s wrong.

Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Toxic To Cats, Dogs & Babies? | Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource Center

FAQ

How to keep a cat away from a fiddle leaf fig?

Train your cat not to eat plants. A squirt of water when they approach the Fiddle Leaf Fig can be an effective deterrent.Jun 14, 2024

Do cats eat fiddle leaf figs?

In short, yes, every part of the plant is poisonous to cats and dogs. A ficus tree might not be the best houseplant choice if you have cats or dogs who might try to sample your plant’s leaves! Fiddle leaf fig leaves and stems contain a thick white sap high in calcium oxalate crystals.

What is a good alternative to a fiddle leaf fig for cats?

A great alternative is the Bamboo Parlor Palm! These can grow just as big if not bigger than a Fiddle Leaf Fig and look great in any room, and most importantly they’re totally pet friendly. So even if your fury little friend decides to take a nibble on it, they’ll be totally safe.

How to keep cats away from houseplants?

To deter cats from houseplants, try making plants less appealing, using scents they dislike, or creating physical barriers. Citrus scents (lemon or orange peels), diluted citrus spray, or even covering soil with stones or foil can be effective.

Dangers Fiddle Leaf Figs Pose to Cats