Yes, burgundy rubber plants are toxic to cats.
Burgundy rubber plant is a select cultivar of the Ficus elastica. This type of rubber plant has fleshy, oval-shaped, and burgundy-hued leaves. These glossy and uniquely coloured foliage make it attractive to many plant enthusiasts. Aside from burgundy rubber plant, it is also called abidjan, black prince, and Ficus elastica burgundy.
Similar to other Indian rubber plant cultivars, burgundy rubber plant has milky white latex stored in different parts of the plant. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) identifies its toxic principles, namely proteolytic enzymes (ficin) and psoralen (ficusin). Wikipedia states that this plant’s latex can irritate the skin and eyes. Moreover, it is toxic when ingested. As such, it is not advisable to have burgundy rubber plants around cats and other pets.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats burgundy rubber plants: Contact your veterinarian immediately. Try to find out how much your cat has eaten, and take the remaining burgundy rubber plant away from her. Place her in a confined space so you can monitor her closely. Plus, remove any plant matter found on your cat’s hair, skin, and mouth.
Observe her for general signs of poisoning. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty in breathing, salivation, twitching and fitting, and shock or collapse. In addition, she may manifest skin inflammation or swelling, changes in her drinking, urinating, and appetite, and depression or coma.
In summary: Avoid burgundy rubber plants if you own a cat that likes to gnaw on plants. Though the plant may liven up your indoor space, the milky substance it releases will do more harm than good.
Play it safe by checking these lists from PetMD, Pet Poison Helpline, and ASPCA before bringing home a new houseplant or growing one in your backyard.
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