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Is Pilea Toxic to Cats? Does it Kill?

Pilea, in Chinese culture, is believed to bring you good fortune with its alluring coin-shaped dark green foliage, but a ‘pet parent concern’ might be pulling you back from owning one.

Generally, the Pilea family, with over 600 varieties, are non toxic to cats. But, overconsumption of Pilea parts can lead your cat to digestion problems.

Let’s unveil some way for your furry friend to co-exist with the Pilea plant happily. 

Why is Pilea Non-toxic to Cat?

Pilea is a great companion for your feline friends because they do not have thorns or fragrances; despite its close connection to the stinging nettle family.

None of the varieties of Pilea, including Pilea depressa, Pilea peperomioides, Pilea mollis, Pilea involucrata, Pilea aquamarine Pilea baby tears, and  Pilea cadierei, poses any threat to the cats.

According to ASPCA, Pilea does not contain harmful chemicals like saponin and calcium oxalate, making them safe from irritation and extreme risks even when swallowed.

However, it is crucial to note that intake of any plant might induce gastrointestinal distress in pets.

Your cat might choke on the leaves, which is a situation none of we pet owners even want to imagine about.

Sometimes the leaves could have bacterial and fungal infections too. 

Moreover, a plant needs fertilizers, pesticides, and other supplements to keep up good health, and so does your Pilea plant

The Pet Poison Helpline states that fertilizer poisoning can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps in cats. 

Cat sniffing the Pilea leaf.
Even if your cat chaotically tears the Pilea, there is still room for you to revive the plant.

The symptoms mentioned above should disappear once the plant’s content is removed from the system.

Meanwhile, the best you can do is rush to a veterinarian nearby, and when not feasible, contact the hotlines below.

How to Prevent Your Cats From Eating Pilea?

Cats are naturally inquisitive creatures and clumsy ramblers, so there’s no doubt about an encounter between the cat and the plant, even when this Chinese money plant is non toxic to cats.

Here is how you keep them from scratching the plant’s leaves and avert a dying Pilea.

  • Place the plant out of the cat’s reach: You may use hanging baskets for the plant or move it away from the surrounding your cat indulges in.
  • Provide distractions: Drive away your meow’s attention with some boxes, fringes, and hanging ropes. 
  • Spray cat deterrents: Cats despise the zesty smell of citrus and peppermint oil. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice in a cup of water to make an essential herbal spray, or use a commercial repellant spray to guard your Pilea.
  • Keep your cats entertained: Provide your cats with enough pet toys or have some playtime. Make sure not to bore them.
  • Plant some barriers: Grow plants with sharp leaves or thorns, like roses, bunny ear cacti, and prickly pears, as a natural barrier for cats. You can also group the Pilea with a cayenne pepper plant.
  • Give them cat grass: Give your cat some chewable alternatives like cat grass to subdue their plant cravings.

FAQs About Toxicity of Pilea

Is Pilea toxic to humans?

The Pilea plant has no noxious impact on humans and instead leverages you with its air-purifying benefits.

Like many other indoor plants, these intense green beauties help lower stress.

Is Pilea peperomioides toxic to dogs?

Since Pilea peperomioides lack harmful toxins, your canine pals are safe around the plant.

Moreover, your plant is more in danger of being tossed over by the dogs.

Wrapping Up!!!

The deep green-colored Pilea, placed against light walls, adds a sense of calmness to your minimal home design, along with its toxin-free nature. 

But keep a distance between pets and plants to be safe from any mishaps.

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