Are you a cat parent looking for the perfect houseplant? The prayer plant may be just what you need.
This vibrant, low-maintenance plant has beautiful colors and unusual leaves that fold up at night – resembling hands in prayer.
But is it safe for cats?
The good news is that the ASPCA does not consider the prayer plant (Maranta leuconeura) toxic to cats.
However, if ingested or touched, it can still cause an upset stomach or a skin rash.
It’s important to note that some varieties of the prayer plant have higher toxins than others, so make sure to research the particular variety before bringing it into your house.
To keep your cat safe while enjoying the beauty of a prayer plant in your home, put it out of reach on a high shelf or behind a wall like a screen or fence.
Check the leaves for signs of decay or discoloration, as these can reveal potential toxicity issues with certain species of plants.
Lastly, use natural pest repellents such as neem oil or cedar chips instead of chemical sprays, which could harm cats if swallowed.
What is Prayer Plant?
Are you looking for a beautiful, low-maintenance houseplant? Look no further than the prayer plant. Native to Brazil’s tropical forests, this stunning plant features large, oval-shaped leaves with intricate veins and patterns.
As night falls, the leaves fold up like hands in prayer, giving the plant its name.
The prayer plant is available in a range of colors, from vibrant green to deep purple and pink.
It’s easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for busy households.
Is Prayer Plant Toxic To Cats?
Before you do, it’s important to consider the safety of your cats.
Fortunately, the good news is that prayer plants are not toxic to cats.
However, if ingested, it can cause some mild irritation.
The saponins found in the plant can result in gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea if consumed.
Therefore, it is essential to keep cats away from the plant as they may be tempted to chew on or ingest it.
To ensure their safety, make sure the prayer plant is placed in a location where cats cannot access it.
So, prayer plants are a great addition to any home’s decor, but remember to take extra precautions if you have cats.
Varieties Of Prayer Plant That Are Safe For Cats
If you’re looking to spruce up your home with plants but have cats, it’s important to make sure the plants you choose are safe for them.
Fortunately, there are several varieties of prayer plants that are non-toxic and safe for cats.
The most popular type of prayer plant that is safe for cats is Maranta leuconeura, also known as the red prayer plant or herringbone plant.
This variety has light green leaves with dark green markings and red veins running through them and can reach up to 12 inches in height and width.
Other types of prayer plants that are safe for cats include Maranta leuconeura, “Kerchoveana,” Calathea roseopicta, and Stromanthe sanguinea (tricolor).
These varieties boast colorful foliage in a variety of shades and patterns, but they all require similar care instructions and are non-toxic to cats.
If you want to keep your cat away from your prayer plants, you can place them in a hanging basket or on a high shelf where the cat won’t be able to reach them.
You can also use deterrent sprays such as bitter apple or citrus oils to make the plants unappealing to cats.
How To Keep Cats Away From Prayer Plant
If you’re a cat owner, you’ll know that cats are naturally curious and may be drawn to the vibrant colors and unique leaves of the prayer plant.
To ensure its safety and wellbeing, it is important to keep cats away from the plant.
Here are five ways to keep your feline friend away from your precious prayer plant.
Use Repellents
Spraying the plant with a pet-safe repellent that contains capsaicin, citronella, or other natural ingredients can help deter cats from coming into contact with it.
You can also try using bitter tasting sprays or repellents that contain these ingredients.
Physical Barriers
Placing physical barriers such as cardboard boxes, plastic fencing, or other objects around the prayer plant is an effective way to keep cats away.
This will ensure they cannot reach the plant and will help protect it from potential harm.
Keep The Area Clean
Make sure to keep the area around the prayer plant clean and free of debris that might attract cats.
This includes removing any food scraps, litter boxes, toys, or other items that may be appealing to cats.
Provide Alternatives
If possible, try to keep cats away from prayer plants by providing them with their own cat grass or other safe plants they can nibble on instead.
This will give them something else to focus on and possibly discourage them from touching the prayer plant.
Provide Toys And Scratching Posts
Providing plenty of toys and scratching posts for cats is another great way to keep them occupied and away from your plants.
This will help prevent them from trying to explore or chew on your beautiful houseplant.
Symptoms Of Poisoning In Cats After Eating Prayer Plant
If your cat has ingested a prayer plant, it is essential to get them to the vet immediately.
Prayer plants are toxic to cats and can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe.
The most common signs of poisoning in cats after eating prayer plants are vomiting, drooling, and a decreased appetite.
If you notice any of these signs in your feline friend, it’s best to have them checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
More severe symptoms include difficulty breathing, seizures, and even death.
If you observe any of these signs in your cat after they have eaten a prayer plant, please contact emergency medical assistance right away.
It is always important to keep potentially poisonous plants out of reach of your cats.
If you suspect that your cat has been poisoned by eating a prayer plant, call your veterinarian immediately for treatment.
Treatment Options For Poisoned Cats
If your beloved feline has been exposed to a toxic plant, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Depending on the severity of the poisoning, your veterinarian may recommend administering activated charcoal or inducing vomiting to remove any remaining toxins from their system.
In addition, they may also require additional treatments such as IV fluids and/or medication to help reduce inflammation or pain.
It is important to note that if a cat has ingested a poisonous plant, you should never give them any home remedies—these can make matters worse.
Alternatives To The Prayer Plant For Cat Owners
There are plenty of safe and beautiful houseplants that will protect your cats while still making your house look stunning.
Spider plants are a great choice for busy pet owners who don’t want to worry about constantly tending to their plants.
Not only do they grow quickly, but they also filter toxins from the air, making them a great choice for pet owners who want to keep their cats safe from harm.
Pothos is another hardy houseplant that can tolerate low light and neglect, so it’s perfect for those with limited time.
Peace lilies are also a great option, as they not only look beautiful but also help purify the air in your home.
Lastly, Dracaena plants come in many varieties with different shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can find one that fits your home decor perfectly while keeping your cats safe from injury at the same time.
Conclusion
The prayer plant is a vibrant and beautiful houseplant that can bring life to any home—even if you have cats. The ASPCA doesn’t list it as toxic, but it’s always important to take precautions.
Choose the right variety for your space, keep it out of reach, and use natural pest repellents instead of chemical sprays.
That way, you can enjoy a stunning prayer plant without putting your feline friend at risk.
If you’re looking for a cat-friendly alternative, there are plenty of non-toxic plants to choose from.
Spider plants, pothos, peace lilies, and Dracaena are all safe for cats and require minimal care.
