Baby’s breath is an incredibly beautiful flower that gives a bouquet airiness and an infusion of soft scents.
But if you don’t have a cat of your own, you may be wondering about why your baby’s breath bouquet seems to have captured your feline pal’s attention. According to the ASPCA, this flower is somewhat toxic to cats.
Toxicity occurs when your cat consumes the plant, either his paws or his mouth, or he self-ingests the plant by rolling in it. Baby’s breath can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pains and urinary problems.
If you think your cat has consumed baby’s breath, don’t jump to conclusions just yet. A small amount probably won’t cause any serious symptoms or problems.
The flower contains water-soluble sugars which, if consumed in large amounts, can cause stomach problems in your cat.
Is Baby’s Breath Toxic To Cats?
Originally from Eurasia, baby’s breath was imported to the United States and Canada for use in the 1800s as a cut flower.
Since it self-sowed quickly, it slowly spread to become an invasive weed. Although it is considered an invasive species, some people have found that the flower provides a natural decoration in outdoor gardens.
The flowers of baby’s breath are small and white, and they grow from a branched stem. Since it easily spreads to other plants or the ground, it often takes over gardens or suburban yards.
Self-seeding, the plant may now grow in the wild as well as at home.
Because of its ease of self-propagation and resilience, it is sometimes categorized as a weed.
Although it may seem to have no effect on your cat, everything is fine as long as the cat never eats enough of the plant to be affected.
Yes, baby’s breath is moderately poisonous to cats.
Can Cats Eat Baby’s Breath?
Some popular garden plants are poisonous to cats and can cause illness or even death if the pet ingests it.
This sugary filler often included in flower arrangements can create havoc in a cat’s stomach resulting in discomfort and possibly vomiting and diarrhea.
Toxic effects might occur when your feline friend gets scratches or plant juices on his fur.
Some sensitive cats cannot tolerate any of the components of baby’s breath. Often you may want to use artificial blossoms for bouquets.
But if you must use real flowers, do not go near or let your cats play with plants in the home or garden. If your feline friend eats a Baby’s Breath plant, he will vomit and become dehydrated due to excessive vomiting and diarrhea.
The Baby’s Breath plant might look beautiful in your flower arrangements, but you should never allow your cat inside if you have a bouquet.
Unfortunately, baby’s breath is toxic to both cats.
Baby’s breath poisoning is unusual in cats, so a call to the vet may save you the expense.
Despite the fact that the baby’s breath plant is not toxic, you should use care while near it.
What Is Baby’s Breath?
There are over 150 species of Gypsophila, or baby’s breath, including annuals and perennials.
In rock gardens, flower borders, and floral arrangment, most types of gypsophila can be evenly spaced at lengths of 50 to 75 cm.
Some of the most popular cultivars are the dwarf ones with large flower heads containing many blooms.
Boron can be removed from soil by growing plants such as beans or fruit trees after harvesting.
Also Read: Can Cats Eat Nectarines?
Do cats like baby’s breath?
There are no well-known plants your cat objects to, however there’s one exception.
By growing baby’s breath in your cat’s favorite location, you can test it for suitability before planting it in your garden.
See whether your cat prefers the fresh or dry plant form.
If that’s the case, then the plant is safe for your feline friend.
You should choose accordingly, in order to reap most from the plant. Cats love the flower and drink it for huge benefits.
It is now well known as a favorite herb for cats. Cats are untainted by as we humans and they praise this plant ferociously.
If your cat has started behaving odd at the sight of baby’s breath then stop giving it to her immediately. Go for some other alternative.
Final Words
If you have a cat, then you should assume that your cat will want to sniff and study any flowers you bring inside.
Cats have an insatiable curiosity that compels them to investigate them.
There are no exceptions to cats liking things they rub on for scent or eating things they shouldn’t.