As cat owners we want to ensure our feline friends are happy and healthy. That means providing a safe home environment free of toxins and dangers. One common question is whether popular houseplants like the trendy pickle plant pose a risk for cats. In this article we’ll explore whether pickle plants are toxic to cats so you can make informed choices for your furry friend.
What is a Pickle Plant?
The pickle plant scientifically known as Delosperma cooperi is a flowering succulent plant. It gets its funny common name from the plump, oblong leaves that resemble tiny pickles.
Native to South Africa, pickle plants are low-growing with a spreading habit. They only reach about 2-8 inches tall. The leaves are typically green to purple-green in color. From late spring into fall, pickle plants produce bright yellow, daisy-like flowers.
As succulents, pickle plants do well in hot, dry conditions. They make easy-care houseplants or small-scale groundcovers for warm climates.
Is the Pickle Plant Toxic to Cats?
The good news is that pickle plants are non-toxic for cats. Both the leaves and flowers are safe for kitties if ingested.
Like most succulents pickle plants don’t like to be overwatered. The fleshy leaves will start to turn mushy and translucent if the plant stays too soggy. But even in this overwatered state the pickle plant contains no toxins and is not poisonous to cats.
So you don’t need to panic if your curious cat takes a taste test with the pickle plant. This cute succulent poses no toxic threat or danger.
Signs of Plant Poisoning in Cats
While pickle plants are feline-friendly, many common houseplants can cause poisoning in cats. Watch for these signs if you think your cat nibbled on a toxic plant:
- Drooling or difficulty swallowing
- Pawing at the mouth
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or depression
- Dilated pupils
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Seizures
- Collapse
If your cat exhibits any concerning symptoms after munching on a plant, rush them to the vet immediately. Don’t wait to see if the signs resolve on their own, as quick treatment is vital for the best outcome.
Other Succulents Safe for Cats
If you love the unique texture succulents add, the good news is many varieties are non-toxic for cats. Here are a few fun, feline-friendly options:
- Burro’s Tail: Long trailing stems with plump leaves, grows up to 3 feet long
- Ponytail Palm: Shaggy trunk and curly, grass-like foliage, grows up to 6 feet tall
- Paddle Plant: Rounded, spoon-shaped leaves on thick stems, grows 1-3 feet tall
- Zebra Haworthia: Spiky leaves with white bands, stays under 6 inches tall
- Hens and Chicks: Tight rosettes of leaves, height of 3-6 inches
- Panda Plant: Fuzzy, wide strappy leaves with white spots, grows 6-12 inches tall
Toxic Plants to Avoid Around Cats
While pickle plants are safe, many trendy houseplants can be extremely dangerous for cats. Avoid these hazardous varieties:
- Lilies: All lily species are very toxic to cats, causing kidney failure.
- Sago Palms: Ingesting any part of a sago palm can be fatal.
- Aloe Vera: The gel and juice inside aloe leaves is highly irritating.
- Tulips/Daffodils: All bulb plants contain toxins that cause mouth pain, vomiting, and tissue damage.
- Azaleas/Rhododendrons: These flowering shrubs contain grayanotoxins that affect the heart.
- Chrysanthemums: Mums have pyrethrin compounds that lead to drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.
- Peace Lilies: The leaves, flowers, and pollen contain painful calcium oxalate crystals if eaten.
Take precautions to keep these hazardous plants completely out of your cat’s reach. The ASPCA has a more extensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants for cats here.
Enjoy Greenery Safely with Cat-Friendly Plants
You don’t have to nix houseplants just because you have a cat. Opt for non-toxic varieties like the pickle plant so you can enjoy the beauty of greenery without risk. Also, use deterrent sprays to make plants unappealing and keep them out of your kitty’s way on high shelves or behind cat-proof barriers.
Above all, when bringing new plants home, always verify they are safe for cats. Taking a few quick precautions will let you and your cat happily co-exist with indoor plants.
To summarize, the pickle plant is non-toxic for cats. Both the leaves and flowers of this trendy succulent are safe if consumed. So you don’t need to worry if your cat takes a nibble. However, many popular houseplants are hazardous, so opt for cat-friendly varieties only. With a few precautions, you can safely decorate your home with plants, allowing you and your feline to enjoy their beauty.
How to Care for Pickle Plant
The pickle plant (Delosperma echinatum) is a quirky and charming succulent native to South Africa, named for its plump, spiky-textured leaves that resemble tiny pickles. With its unique appearance and low-maintenance nature, the pickle plant is a delightful addition to any indoor succulent collection. Here’s how to care for this fascinating plant.
The pickle plant thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a sunny window, such as a south- or east-facing one, where it can receive 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. While it can tolerate direct sunlight, prolonged exposure to intense rays may scorch its leaves. If you notice the plant stretching or becoming leggy, it’s likely not getting enough light.
As a succulent, the pickle plant prefers the “soak and dry” method of watering. Allow its soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then discard any excess water. During the growing season (spring and summer), water every 2-3 weeks. In fall and winter, reduce watering to once a month or less, as the plant enters dormancy.
The pickle plant requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. Utilize a cactus or succulent blend, or formulate your own by combining potting soil with sand or perlite to enhance drainage. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
This plant thrives in warm temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and prefers low humidity, mimicking its native arid environment. Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is not frost-tolerant. Indoors, keep it away from cold drafts or air conditioning vents.
Feed your pickle plant with a succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season. Fertilize your pickle plant once a month in spring and summer to encourage healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing your plant in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Pruning is rarely needed for the pickle plant but can be done to maintain its shape or remove dead or damaged leaves. Use a clean, sharp knife, scissors or pruning shears to avoid introducing disease.
Repot your pickle plant every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a slightly larger pot with drainage holes and refresh the soil during repotting. Handle the plant gently, as its delicate leaves can break off easily.
The pickle plant is easy to propagate through stem or leaf cuttings. Cut a healthy stem or leaf and let it dry for a day or two to allow the cut end to callous. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil, water lightly, and place it in a bright, warm location. Roots will develop in a few weeks, and new growth will follow.
5 House Plants That Are Toxic To Cats | CatManJohn
FAQ
Is pickle plant poisonous?
Consider adding the pickle plant to your houseplant collection. The plant is non-toxic and safe around pets and children.
Is the dill plant toxic to cats?
Dill not toxic to cats, but caution is advised due to liver sensitivity. Symptoms to watch for: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Prevent dill ingestion with cat-proofing and safe alternatives like catnip.
Is pickle toxic to cats?
Pickles are a tasty treat for humans, but not for your cat. The excessive amounts of salt in pickles can harm cats, who tend to have a high thirst drive and need water more than other animals.
Are yucca plants toxic to cats?
Yes, yucca plants are toxic to cats. Yucca plants contain saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats, leading to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, more severe reactions can occur, including convulsions.