The ZZ Plant is considered a Caution, (mildly toxic), plant. They may be curious enough to try to chew on the leaf. ZZ plants are not the best plants to have when you have cats in the house. According to sources such as Richard Jauron from the Department of Horticulture at Iowa State University. Like rubber trees, broken leaves produce a sap that can get onto human skin and cat mouths. Because of their popularity, ZZ plants are going to be found in homes that have dogs. Even touching ZZ plant sap can potentially cause skin and eye irritation. We use cookies to help give you the best experience. However, it gets even worse when the sap is consumed. The toxicity of this plant is derived from the calcium oxalate crystals located in the sap. For instance, it produces calcium oxalate. This will help prevent your cat from getting inside and coming into contact with this plant. As we mentioned at the start of this article 19 of the 30 great detoxifying plants that were listed over on Sound Body Life were found to be poisonous and toxic to cats and dogs. This plant was in-fact considered extremely poisonous and to be handled with gloves. Here are some of the other poisonous plants to cats that you may not know. Give your cat plenty of water and some food. Consider sprinkling some coffee grounds or spraying a vinegar solution around the plant. Houseplants are a common sight in nearly every home. It is why many homes have this type of plant as a decorative feature. Now, when cats consume the sap or even the leaves, this can be quite harmful. Likes temperatures from 8 to 26 c and enjoys bright indirect sunlight. Other ways may include the use of cat repellents and deterrents, training them not to eat plants, picking any leaves that fall, and so on. ZZ plant is a common name for the genus Zamioculcas and, by extension, its only species Zamioculcas zamiifolia in the family Araceae (the arum family). Zamioculcas zamiifolia, or “ZZ Plant” Attractive for its ability to thrive in low-light environments, the ZZ plant can cause adverse reactions such as vomiting and diarrhea. Copyright © 2021 Pet Care Advisors | All Rights Researved. Also, be advised that the consumption of any plant material may cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset for dogs and cats. As a member of the Araceae family many people ask the question: Is The ZZ Plant Poisonous or Toxic To People, Dogs, Cats or Horses? They are tough and capable of surviving anywhere. Such a beautiful plant deserves a place in every home, and they have been confirmed to be completely safe for cats, and in fact for dogs and humans too, so you needn’t have any concern about the safety of having this plant in your home. Toxic parts: All parts of the plant are toxic to cats; Causes: Oral irritation; Symptoms: Drooling, pawing at the mouth, oral swelling and pain, vomiting, loss of appetite and difficulty breathing; Zanzibar (ZZ) plant The quick and definitive answer is Yes. Just merely touching the plant should be fine except for some skin irritation. So if you have pets or children, this is one houseplant you’ll definitely want to keep out of reach. #2- Ferns. This plant is bad for both dogs and cats and is also known as Emerald Fern, Emerald Feather, Sprengeri Fern, Lace Fern and Plumosa Fern. Your email address will not be published. Yes, the ZZ plant is mildly poisonous to cats, dogs and humans if directly ingested. This can facilitate the removal of the toxin. Surprising Plant Fact – Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Cats? Moreover, they add beauty to your home. For instance, you may want to keep the plant in your room and keep the door closed. If you have pets in the house, it is best to keep the plant out of their reach. When cats ingest any plant with insoluble calcium oxalates, they will pierce or embed on their oral or intestinal mucous membrane causing a lot of pain. Your email address will not be published. Plants safe for cats (10 Best Plants) #1- Hibiscus. A pet that comes in contact with a ZZ plant may develop inflammation of the skin, eyes or mucus membranes. Here are some of the most common plants poisonous to cats with mild symptoms: Philodendron, Pothos, Dieffenbachia, Peace lily, Poinsettia – Whether it comes from chewing on or ingesting the plants, all of these can lead to mouth and throat irritation, drooling and vomiting. If you have a reason to suspect your cat has eaten the ZZ plants, take her to your vet or call the following numbers for further assistance: If you love this charming and hardy plant and you have cats, you can still grow it. However, it will not seriously harm you or your furry friends. These methods cannot guarantee you 100% that your cat won’t nibble harmful houseplants. According to the University of Florida, all parts of the plant are toxic to cats, dogs and humans. ZZ plants have a reputation for being poisonous strictly by its family association. ZZ Plant The Zamioculcas Zamifolia, aka ZZ Plant, is one of those “tough as nails” houseplants that can survive just about anywhere, even in extremely low light. The strong smell will discourage your pet from coming close to it. Please be sure to check the name of the plant to determine its toxicity. Toxic Principles: Saponins A Quick Guide, Why Are My Calla Lily Leaves Turning Yellow? Although ZZ Plants are considered to be toxic, it’s worth mentioning that “toxic” is a somewhat relative term. One of these plants, for instance, are ZZ plants or the Zamioculcas Zamifolia. However, you will need to ensure you protect, i.e., ensure your children and pets don’t access it. The truth of the matter is that ZZ plants are poisonous, but not lethally toxic to pets. Feline owners frequently ask – Are ZZ plants toxic to cats? Of course, ingesting any plant material … The ZZ plants are toxic to cats because they have insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, just like most other plants in the same family like pothos, monsteras, aglaonemas, and dumb cane, calla lilies, peace lilies, Caladium, flamingo plant, among others. ZZ Plants. With some practical techniques, you can keep both the plant and your cat and make sure no one gets sick along the process. If your pet suffers from such symptoms after ingesting the sap of ZZ plants, you can help them expel it quickly. Philodendron, ficus, ZZ plants, and aloe can be problematic for your pet (a complete list of plant toxicity in cats and dogs can be found here). Sansevieria Choosing a location at home that is inaccessible to your felines is the perfect solution. Some “toxic” or “poisonous” houseplants produce isolated symptoms, often very mild, like rashes or upset stomach, while others cause … In short, yes the Fiddle Leaf Fig plant is mildly toxic to cats and will cause very mild oral and GI irritation. Nerve plants thrive best in quite high humidity, so are particularly suitable as a terrarium plant. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas) This plant definitely isn’t ZZ Top for your pet as it can result in irritable reactions including diarrhea and vomiting. While not generally dangerous to humans, all lilies are highly toxic to cats and certain varieties can be toxic to dogs … ZZ plant is not deadly, but you … So, how can you keep both without worrying about any illness or accidents with your cats? So, I am here to share with you what exactly the ZZ plants do and how they impact your curious little feline. #4- The Sunflower. It is not the most toxic among the poisonous indoor plants and it has made a much better reputation for itself in the past few years. 19 Air Purifying House Plants that are Poisonous and Toxic to Cats and Dogs. #3- The Blood Leaf. Many people think that because their cats and dogs are smaller than they are, that the ZZ plant can have more of an impact. These are quite common indoor plants because of their low-maintenance quality. Avocado Trees Turning Yellow? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Although they cannot exactly kill them or any other pets at home, it is best to be cautious about it. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. However, it is concerning when you see your pet suffering from a wide range of stomach issues. Never keep it in an area where your cats love to linger around. Check Price on Amazon . The same holds true with rubbing your eyes after you touch this plant. The ZZ plants are toxic to cats because they have insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, just like most other plants in the same family like pothos, monsteras, aglaonemas, and dumb cane, calla lilies, peace lilies, Caladium, flamingo plant, among others. They come in a variety of colors and have multiple uses. If your cats eat ZZ plants, some of the typical symptoms they suffer from include the following: Humans will suffer from dermatitis if the sap of Zamioculcas touches their skin, and it is toxic if it is ingested and will irritate the mucous membrane. Are ZZ Plants Toxic To Pets? Baby's Breath. There are lots of non-toxic ones that won't harm your curious critters if they take a little nibble. While “toxic” sounds like a scary word, it is very unlikely the ZZ plant will kill or cause significant harm to you or your pets. Shortly, the answer is yes. Ingesting the leaf will not at all be fatal. The sure way to protect your dangerous or harmful houseplants is cat-proofing them. These great big flowers have a personality of their own. But after some hours, the symptoms will eventually subside. What makes the plant poisonous is its unique composition. Unfortunately, this beautiful plant is a threat to your pets, especially cats. The Reasons Why, A Helpful Guide to Growing Artichokes in Oregon. Aloe Vera. Whether you place them in low-light conditions or not frequently watered, these plants can thrive without a doubt. The toxic chemical of the lily plant is unknown but it does contain something that causes kidney failure in cats.For dogs with an existing kidney or liver disease, the same can happen.All your vet can do is offer support because the prognosis is poor at best. Like Philodendron, ZZ plant contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and respiratory issues. I hope you were able to learn valuable information and tips from this post to keep your pets and household members safe each time. Are your pets safe from your indoor plants? Thegardenprepper.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Are ZZ plants toxic to cats and dogs? In fact, one of the most popular house plants ever is the ZZ plant! Something like a plant terrarium will work well. They brighten your living space, help improve indoor air quality, and have been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression - plus many people find caring for plants therapeutic.Unfortunately, if you have cats there are many houseplants that you should avoid bringing into your home due to their toxic properties - especially since cats … After all, there are some aspects of it that many people are not aware of. The place where it grows just needs to be able to accommodate it's size in diameter, which can become over 2ft once it matures - making a table area a nice place to display the plant. Hibiscus flower. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List - Cats Plants Toxic to Cats Adam-and-Eve (Arum, Lord-and-Ladies, Wake Robin, Starch Root, Bobbins, Cuckoo Plant) | Scientific Names: Arum maculatum | … #5- Baby’s Tears. Stomach irritation with symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting may arise. What can you do to make sure they do not suffer these risks and symptoms? Many toxic plants are irritants: they cause localized inflammation of the skin, mouth, stomach, etc. Unfortunately, Zamioculcas, also known as eternity plant, The Answer Tree, Zuzu plant, emerald palm, aroid plant, aroid palm, Zanzibar gem, or ZZ plants, are poisonous to cats, dogs, and even human beings, notes the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension. Native to eastern Africa, from northeastern South Africa to Kenya, ZZ plants are a real charm if you are looking for an evergreen garden or houseplant with pinnately compound and lovely glossy leaves that grow from its rhizome. Not Enough Time To Maintain The Garden? Calla lilies are beautiful, but at the same time, they are one of the poisonous plants for dogs and cats. However, are these plants toxic to dogs? This a curious question many people wonder about – are ZZ plants toxic to cats? Like many other plants that make up the toxic pet list, ZZ plants produce calcium oxalates which is a serious irritant internally and externally. How to Keep Pets Safe with a ZZ Plant in the House, How to Prevent Pets from Coming Into Contact with ZZ Plants. Ingesting ZZ plants can cause vomiting, stomach aches, and diarrhea. Although they cannot exactly kill them or any other pets at home, it is best to be cautious about it. You also need to ensure your kids cannot access any toxic plants. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia) 12-Inch Tall in Grower’s Pot, $42.89, Amazon, Top 7 High-Quality Beds to Keep Your Dog Warm Outside, 11 Essential to Buy Before Bringing a New Puppy, Bearded Dragon Basking and Nighttime Temperature, Best Terrarium, Vivarium, or Tank Heat Sources. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (800)426-4435 (charges a fee). Try These Time-saving Gardening Tricks. What is a ZZ Plant? This is why you end up going through skin irritations because of this substance. It is quite surprising that there are simply some plants that do not exactly blend well with your household members including pets. Thus, your skin tends to get irritated when you touch this sap. Your mucous membranes and the skin react quickly when exposed to calcium oxalate. When your little feline comes close enough to consume bits of it, this can be bad news to your pet. Asparagus Fern. When the plant is chewed, clinical signs are visible immediately. Once any part of a lily plant is ingested by cats in good health, the outlook isn’t good and that’s the same for dogs … Have you ever heard of or seen a ZZ plant? The toxic principle in other plants may have a systemic effect and damage or alter the function of a cat’s organs, like the kidney or heart. So, are ZZ plants toxic to cats? It has small and has striped leaves, occasionally flowers but rarely when kept indoors. Haworthia Zebra (Haworthia attenuata) A member of the succulent group of plants, this little plant, reminiscent of cacti, originates from South Africa and is safe for cats and dogs. Poisonous: All parts of this plant are said to be toxic if ingested by children, cats and dogs. But simply touching it or brushing your skin against it will not kill you at all. The majority of things you have maybe heard about the plant are blown out of proportion. Plant Care Tips ... ZZ plants are mildly toxic to humans as well as pets if ingested. Yes, all parts of ZZ plants are poisonous to animals and humans. Sadly, ZZ plants are toxic to dogs, cats, and people if ingested and can cause oral burning, swelling, irritation, vomiting, excessive drooling, and difficulty breathing. These are very popular indoor plants due to the ease of taking care of these. Your curious little cat will undergo diarrhea and vomiting as the body tries to expel this substance. Yes, they are, but that does not mean you can no longer keep these green beauties in the house. You may suffer from skin irritation when you fail to wash your hands well after being in contact with the plant. However, this is only an assumption as there is no truth in it. The plant contains a sap that reacts with your skin’s mucous membranes. Why are they toxic? First, you should make sure that you place this plant in an ideal spot. The plant contains a sap that reacts with your skin’s mucous membranes. They experience diarrhea and vomiting as their bodies want to eliminate this calcium oxalate quickly. Here are the Reasons Why! This is specifically true when you live in a tighter space where there is no other spot to place this plant. A rumor that ZZ plants cause cancer started making rounds in the 2010s, but that information is also not accurate. The plant does have toxic effects when ingested. Required fields are marked *. Let’s get started. By April Sanders Zamioculcas zamiifolia is more commonly known as the ZZ plant, because it is a mouthful to say. However, if you have a cat in the house, it may be best to keep caution about this plant. These extremely small and sharp crystals are what cause the adverse symptoms associated with this plant. The main symptoms of ZZ plant contact include irritation when touched or stomach pain and nausea if ingested. Severe oral irritation and burning that includes the tongue, lips, and mouth. ZZ plant is poisonous to pets and humans. Common names: Amaryllis, fire lily, lily of the palace, ridderstjerne Toxic to: Cats, dogs Symptoms: Vomiting, salvation, diarrhea (large quantities can cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors and cardiac arrhythmias) Note: The bulbs are the most poisonous part of this plant. Here are those plants: 1. Common Plants and Flowers That Are Poisonous to Cats. Otherwise, it will not be fatal to humans or cats at all. The symptoms for Fiddle Leaf Fig poisoning only will last about 24 hrs and you can help treat the symptoms with plenty of milk and water. Exposure to the plant can also cause minor skin and eye irritation. The American Association of Poison Control Centers (800) 222-1222. ZZ plants are grown from rhizomes, which means that they appreciate infrequent watering, making them an overall low-maintenance houseplant. You like to keep your ZZ plant, yet you also love your pets to bits. ZZ plants are not the best plants to have when you have cats in the house. Toxic Properties: Insoluble calcium oxalates Additionally, some deterrents can help. This substance makes up your kidney stones, and it has sharp edges. Thus, your body will want to get rid of it quickly by causing you to vomit. When the plant is chewed, clinical signs are visible immediately. The short answer is yes, they are, to cats, dogs, and people. Plants listed as either non-toxic, or potentially toxic with mild GI upset as their symptoms are not expected to be life-threatening to your pets. Now that you know the effects ZZ plants have on your pet, let’s talk about solutions. How Do You Treat Fungus on a Magnolia Tree? There have been myths revolving around the ZZ plants and how they can actually cause cancer. Expert Guide on How to Prune Pepper Plants for Maximum Yield – Simple, Easy Steps! Dragon tree plants are toxic to cats and dogs, and cats especially like to nibble on their slim leaves. 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