Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Cats? Can you grow them where they are near to your pets without any worries? Find out everything and more!
Do you have pets at home? Are you worried about your cat before you bring in a ZZ plant? Want to know – Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Cats? Let’s get into all the details!
Here’s all you need to know about growing ZZ Plants
ZZ PlantÂ
ZZ plant, eternity plant, or emerald palm (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is an easy to grow, air-purifying CAM plant perfect for homes and offices. It features glossy, waxy dark green foliage and grows up to 2-3 feet tall and wide at maturity, making it an ideal choice for large and small spaces.
Have a look at the advantages of growing a ZZ Plant here
Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Cats?
ZZ plants have calcium oxalate crystals in all parts, which is the same compound that causes kidney stones in humans. The broken leaves or stems emit sap that contains calcium oxalate crystals. This sap makes the ZZ plant harmful to cats, dogs, and humans when ingested or contacted with skin.
The sharp, tiny crystals irritate the skin and cause pain, swelling in the mouth and throat. When cats ingest any part of this plant, the needle-like crystals prick on the tongue or mouth and cause vomiting, hypersalivation, or drooling, and often swelling of the pharynx.
Read about the succulents safe for cats here
Treatment of ZZ Plant Poisoning in Cats
According to this report by Dr. Tina A. Wismer of ASPCA, blockage of the throat is rare in cats, and most issues of toxicity resolve in 24 hours. If your feline shows symptoms like skin allergy or irritation in the abdomen, scrotum, paws, and anal area. Then try the given solutions:
- If you notice any digestive system-related issues in your pet, immediately consult your regular vet.
- Give a bath to your cat if there is any skin irritation or allergy.
- Apply aloe vera gel to an allergic area on the skin.
- Let your cat drink sufficient water and avoid any movement.
- Treat the cat by washing its mouth with water.
Here are some fly-eating plants for your garden!
Conclusion
You can save your cats or pets from the ZZ plant by placing it in an area out of their reach or on high plant stands. Pick up dropped leaves and throw the pruned foliage in covered trash cans.
