Cats are attracted by the color and scent of this flowering shrub and its perfume-like fragrance.
The leaves and stems of phlox are bitter-tasting which may discourage a cat from nibbling on it. A cat cannot cause any harm to the plant if consumed so it isn’t harmful or poisonous to your cat or kitten.
So, can cats eat phlox?
The plant belongs to the Polemoniaceae family along with ragweed, pistachios and pistachios, and pine trees.
It is not harmful or poisonous to a cat or kitten by definition, and cats have no capacity to trigger its toxicity nor the toxicity that is general for other plants of the same family or even for some other plants like oak trees which are very common trees in temperate and subtropical climates of the world.
Cats are not harmed by phlox, a blooming plant of the Polemoniaceae family.
Because this evergreen perennial isn’t harmful, your pet shouldn’t be harmed if he or she chews on the leaves or blossoms.
Is Phlox Toxic To Cats?
Phlox subulata and Phlox paniculata are the varieties that are commonly sold.
Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata) and moss phlox (Phlox subulata) are both typical perennial woodland flowers that thrive in dappled shade.
At least four hours of direct sunshine are necessary for garden phlox.At least four hours of direct sunshine are necessary for garden phlox.
When grown in partially shady areas, this perennial often matures into a rugged shrubby plant that doesn’t seem to bloom well and doesn’t spread much.
In good soil that is moist and rich in nutrients, the plant blooms profusely and spreads considerably.
Maintenance of garden phlox includes regular removal of dead or spent blossoms for a constant source of new blossoms for the plant, according to North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension.
These flowers are best when they bloom in early spring and early summer, but they will tend to be at their peak from June to August.
Are Phlox Flowers Poisonous To Cats?
Known as perennial or border phlox, the pink-flowered phlox Phlox paniculata is a garden favourite in North America and displays magnificent blooms from July to September.
The vivid colors of this flower make it appealing to both humans and felines. From July to September, Phlox paniculata ‘Dusterlohe’ produces magnificent violet-blue flowers.
Perennial phlox is noted for carrying and offers nectar, pollen and essential vitamins beneficial to the health and growth of bees and other insects. Consequently cats licking the nectar or pollen would ingest these beneficial components.
Suitable for the middle of a border or growing buttercup-yellow flowers against a lime-green backdrop.
Producing numerous violet-blue blossoms later in the summer, this cultivar is an excellent choice for the front of a border or spilling over the edges of containers.
Phlox paniculata is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but will perform better if given rich soil and plenty of moisture.
Due to its height, poor air circulation and lack of dampness in the soil, it must be planted in a location where it will not interfere with other plants and grasses or where the soil can be enriched with peat moss or composted manures.
From July through September, Phlox paniculata ‘Dusterlohe’ produces a profusion of lovely violet-blue flowers that shine out well against various blues and purple.
It pops out against other darker foliage and bloom and attracts butterflies and bees as well.
Even if cats get drawn to and ingest these brightly colored flowers on a frequent basis, there will be no detrimental effects on the cats.
Is Phlox Paniculata Toxic To Cats?
In the event that you feel your cat has eaten some phlox, it is suggested to contact your veterinarian.
The plant or the seeds are present in your body for quite some time and any cat would get the benefit by eating the plant or seeds.
No harm will come to your feline friend even if he swallows the whole plant.
Cats are certainly not in danger from eating phlox flowers or seeds. The cat loving domestic plant is actually quite safe, even for the most finicky of cats.
The Harlequin or Spanish Blue variety would be an exception to the statement made earlier though, but this is a very tiny amount of plants so it’s unlikely even the majority of cats would taste it.
Is Creeping Phlox Toxic To Cats?
The perennial moss pink or mountain phlox, also commonly known as crowfoot phlox or wild geranium, is a member of the heath family (Ericaceae) that originates in the rocky woods in North America.
The plant is widespread across the United States and inhabits various habitats, such as prairies, meadows and forests. It grows either in rock crevices or on bare soil on mountain slopes and ledges.
The creeping phlox displays beautiful violet and white blooms every year and attracts bees and butterflies to the garden.
In North America’s rocky terrain, creeping phlox provides shelter for birds and insects, and it also provides nectar for bees and hummingbirds.
Your yard will be covered with beautiful flowers without your cat chewing up your plants.
The name “phlox” comes from the Greek phlox, which means “flame.” Flowers are showy and bold in color.
If interested in growing peas that you can eat, peas are probably one of your best bets. Peas will attract bees and butterflies to your yard, and when they are flowering, they are easy to identify by their sweet smell and soft purple color.
Cats love the flowers and leaves of creeping phlox, and it may be tempting to allow your cat to graze freely in your rock garden.
They won’t get sick from consuming creeping phlox.
Also Read: Can Cats Eat Mustard?
Is Garden Phlox Toxic To Cats?
It is safe to ingest garden phlox.
Cats, on the other hand, may be attracted to the smell of garden phlox.
There are several different species of this plant that grow around the world and vary in color as well as size.
White, lavender, pink, and blue are just the color varieties the plant comes in; the size range covers anything between a ground cover and a tall shrub.
The deep tubular pink, purple, blue, and white colors make phlox a popular hedge plant in many homes.
As summer arrives and it’s hotter outside than ever it is important to keep your cat cool and hydrated to prevent heat stroke. Many cats love water and love to drink but you may not be aware that there are other things to keep them hydrated other than water.