The ZZ plant (also known as the Zamioculcas zamiifolia, Zanzibar Gem, or Zee Zee plant) is a popular houseplant known for its low maintenance and resilience.
While it is a great addition to any home, it is important to note that the ZZ plant is toxic to cats.
In this blog post, we will discuss the dangers of the ZZ plant to cats, the symptoms of toxicity, and how to keep your feline friend safe.
Is ZZ Plant Toxic to Cats?
Yes, ZZ plants are considered toxic to cats. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and discomfort if ingested by cats.
The symptoms of ZZ plant ingestion in cats may include drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, oral irritation, and inflammation of the mouth and tongue.
If you suspect that your cat has ingested the ZZ plant or is showing any signs of discomfort after being in contact with the plant, it is important to seek veterinary assistance immediately.
The veterinarian will be able to provide appropriate guidance and treatment for your cat’s specific situation.
How Dangerous Is the ZZ Plant?
The ZZ plant is considered to be mildly toxic if ingested. The toxic compounds in the plant are present in the leaves and stem, and can cause symptoms such as mouth irritation, stomach discomfort, and vomiting.
The plant’s sap can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. However, it is not typically considered to be highly dangerous and severe reactions are rare.
It is important to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets, handle it with gloves and avoid ingesting it, and avoid direct contact with the sap and inhaling the dust.
If you suspect that someone has ingested parts of the plant or has symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
Also read, ZZ Plant Causes Cancer: A Detailed Analysis.
What Makes the ZZ Plant Toxic to Cats?
The ZZ plant contains a toxic compound called calcium oxalate crystals.
Calcium oxalate crystals are found in certain plants, including the ZZ plant, caladium, and many species of lilies.
These crystals can cause oral irritation and difficulty swallowing if ingested by cats.
In severe cases, ingesting plants that contain calcium oxalate crystals can lead to kidney failure, respiratory distress, and even death a few times.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ZZ plant (calcium oxalate crystal) ingestion in cats may include:
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
- Respiratory distress
- Kidney failure
If you suspect that your cat has ingested a plant that contains calcium oxalate crystals, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately.
The vet may induce vomiting or give activated charcoal to absorb any remaining toxins and administer fluids to prevent dehydration and support kidney function.
It’s important to keep plants containing calcium oxalate crystals out of the reach of cats and to be familiar with the common houseplants that are toxic to cats so that you can take appropriate precautions to keep your cat safe.
Can a ZZ Plant Kill a Cat?
Yes, eating a high quantity of ZZ plant can kill a cat.
Ingestion of this plant can cause oral irritation, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and in severe cases, it may also cause respiratory distress and kidney failure, which can also lead to death in cats.
It is important to seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect that your cat has ingested a ZZ plant.
It’s also important to keep the plant out of reach of cats to prevent any exposure to the toxic plant.
What to Do If Your Cat Eats Or Chews On A Toxic Plant
If you suspect that your cat has ingested a toxic plant, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. Here are some steps you can take:
- Remove the plant: If possible, remove the plant from your cat’s immediate environment to prevent further ingestion.
- Identify the plant: Try to identify the plant that your cat has ingested, and have this information ready when you call the vet.
- Call the vet: Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) at (888) 426-4435. The APCC is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can provide treatment recommendations.
- Follow the vet’s instructions: The vet may ask you to bring your cat in for examination or may provide instructions for at-home treatment. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully.
- Keep the plant: Bring a sample of the plant to the vet for identification and for further treatment.
- Monitor your cat’s symptoms: Keep an eye on your cat for signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, difficulty breathing, or changes in behavior.
- Be prepared to provide information: Be prepared to provide information about when your cat was exposed to the plant, how much was ingested, and any symptoms that have occurred.
It’s important to act quickly when a cat ingests a toxic plant, as some toxins can cause serious harm or death if not treated promptly.
How to Keep ZZ Plant Safely?
Here are some ways to keep a ZZ plant safe:
- Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets. The plant is toxic if ingested, so it should be placed in an area that is not easily accessible.
- Handle the plant with gloves. The sap of this plant can cause skin irritation, so it’s best to wear gloves when handling the plant.
- Avoid high humidity. ZZ plants prefer dry conditions and should be kept in a well-ventilated area to prevent fungal growth.
- Keep the leaves dry. Water the plant sparingly and avoid over-watering to prevent fungal growth and root rot.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight. ZZ plants will tolerate low light, but they will not tolerate direct sunlight.
- Regularly check for pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for any signs of insect infestation or disease and take appropriate action if necessary.
- Avoid inhaling the plant’s dust. It can cause respiratory irritation, so it’s best to keep the plant in a well-ventilated area.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your ZZ plant stays healthy and safe.
Other Houseplants Toxic to Cats
There are many common houseplants that can be toxic to cats if ingested. Some examples include:
- Lilies: Many types of lilies, including Tiger, Asiatic, Day, Easter, and Japanese Show lilies, can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested.
- Sago Palm: All parts of the sago palm, including the seeds and leaves, can be toxic to cats and can cause liver failure.
- Dieffenbachia: Also known as dumb cane, this plant can cause oral irritation and difficulty swallowing if ingested by cats.
- Philodendron: This popular houseplant can cause oral irritation and difficulty swallowing if ingested by cats.
- Ivy: Many types of ivy, including English ivy and Swedish ivy, can cause oral irritation and difficulty swallowing if ingested by cats.
- Aloe: The sap of the aloe plant can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested by cats.
- Poinsettia: While not deadly, Poinsettia can cause an upset stomach and vomiting if ingested by cats
- Caladium: The leaves and tubers of caladiums contain insoluble calcium oxalates that can cause severe oral irritation, pawing at the mouth, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and respiratory distress.
It is important to keep these and other toxic plants out of reach of cats and to seek veterinary attention immediately if you suspect that your cat has ingested a toxic plant.
FAQs:
To prevent toxicity from ZZ plants, it is important to keep the plant out of reach of children and pets, as the plant can be toxic if ingested.
Additionally, it is important to handle the plant with gloves, as the sap can cause skin irritation. Avoid placing the plant in areas with high humidity and keep the leaves dry to prevent fungal growth.
Finally, it’s important to keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and to avoid inhaling the plant’s dust, which can cause respiratory irritation.
Yes, even if a cat only licks or chews on the leaves of a ZZ plant, it can still cause oral irritation, difficulty swallowing, and vomiting. It’s important to keep the plant out of reach of cats to prevent any exposure.
To keep ZZ plants away from cats, it is important to keep the plant out of reach of cats, by placing it on high shelves or behind closed doors.
You can also use a cat repellent spray, or use a physical barrier such as a screen or fence to block the plant from the cat.
Conclusion
While the ZZ plant is a popular and low-maintenance houseplant, it is important to remember that it is toxic to cats.
If you have a cat and are considering getting a ZZ plant, it is important to keep it out of reach and to be aware of the symptoms of toxicity.
If you suspect that your cat has ingested the plant, seek medical attention immediately. With proper precautions and timely treatment, your cat can recover from the effects of the ZZ plant.
It is always best to keep toxic plants away from your pets, but if you must have them it is better to place them in an area where your cat doesn’t have access to.
As a pet owner, it is essential to be aware of the dangerous plants that are toxic to your pets, and to take the necessary precautions to keep them safe.