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Is Chinese Evergreen Toxic to Cats? [Final Truth]

Chinese Evergreen plant, also known as Aglaonema, is one of the most popular houseplants due to its low maintenance. In addition to being adaptable and durable, the plant can be harmful. 

Chinese Evergreen plant is toxic to humans and pets including cats. It contains calcium oxalate crystals that penetrate the oral tissue while chewing or biting, causing pain, burning, irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal system, and swelling of the upper airway.

Even though Aglaonemas are poisonous, their aesthetic appeal makes them much desired. So, you need to prepare yourself enough to grow the plants when taming the pets at home. 

Are All Chinese Evergreen Plants Toxic to Cats? [Explained Why]

These are poisonous plants, although they seldom cause harm to humans or other animals because of their low toxicity.

According to ASPCA, Chinese Evergreen plants or all Aglaonema plants are toxic as they contain needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals. The crystals in Chinese Evergreen plants can cause irritation and burning when consumed.

Aglaonema plants produce red berries in the summer after the blooming phase has ended.

aglonema in pot
Aglonema plant possesses toxins throughout the parts including leaf, root, berries.

Even though children and animals would not typically consume plant leaves, there’s a chance that the berries are one of the reasons this plant is consumed.

To be on the safe side, remove the blooming stem before the berries develop.

What if my Cat Ate Aglaonema?

Chinese Evergreen plants shouldn’t kill your cat, but the sickness can be serious.

As cats don’t taste these plants very nice, your pet could take a mouthful, barf it up, and that’s it.

Symptoms of Monstera Poisioning in Cats chart
Clinical symptoms may include pawing at the face, drooling and froth, and vomiting.

These calcium oxalate crystals are poisonous if eaten or touched by the sap/juice of this plant. Dogs, cats, and horses are most at risk, but people can also be affected.

What to do after Cats Eat Chinese Evergreen? 

If you suspect your cat or pet has ingested a Chinese Evergreen plant, the following measures should be followed as a first aid care for cats.

  • Get your cat outside to get some fresh air.
  • Rinse and cleanse the mouth thoroughly with water.
  • After that, the animal’s discomfort can be alleviated by administering calcium-rich foods such as yogurt, milk, cheese, or other calcium-rich food.
  • Give your cat some water, but don’t force it.
  • You may also give your cat ice chips to help with the pain in their mouth until you can get in touch with your veterinarian.
  • Never give your cat any treatment or cause vomiting without first consulting your veterinarian.

The length of time it takes to recover is determined by the toxin (type and amount) that afflicted them.

But your cat should fully recover within 12 to 24 hours of ingesting the poison if the first aid treatment is given properly.

Ultimately, you need to take help from professionals or doctors to treat your poisoned cats. For this, you can call the following hotlines 24/7.

Important Note: If your cat is pregnant or has some underlying medical conditions, consult with your doctor before giving them any medicine. 

How to Prevent your Cats from Eating Chinese Evergreen Plants?

Chinese Evergreens are also moderately poisonous, causing minor discomfort to a pet’s mouth and stomach if ingested.

You can follow the preventive measures to help to prevent your cats from eating toxic plants.

  • As a rule of thumb, you should hang toxic plants out of your cat’s reach or place them where your cat is not allowed.
  • Spray the plant with pepper spray to hush away your cat. You can buy several pepper sprays available on the market that is intended to dissuade cats from nibbling.
  • Try dabbing a cotton ball with a little citrus or peppermint oil and placing it on the dirt. It’s a scent that most cats dislike and avoid. Reapply after a few days until the cat loses interest in the flower.
  • Cats love to eat grass, and it’s no wonder. You may provide them with a patch of grass. Afterward, they’ll stop bothering the plants.

You can get a cat grass kit for your cats to nibble on. Cat grass are healthy and perfectly safe for your cats.

From Editorial Team

Train your Cats to Avoid Missap!

Cats always boast majestic walk and seek attention from owners, so they mess with household utensils and plants in no time.

To avoid this, train your cats about good behavior, giving them some prizes.

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