Yes, cordyline plants are toxic to cats.
Cordyline is a genus belonging to the Asparagaceae family. These flowering plants are native to places such as Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Polynesia, and South America. At present, 24 species belong to this genus. Cordyline australis (commonly known as cabbage tree) and Cordyline fruticosa (also called ti plant, cabbage palm, or palm lily) are two species often grown as ornamental plants. Some varieties are also used for medicinal and culinary purposes.
MasterClass states that the Cordyline genus is not a safe indoor plant for pets. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) specifically states that the ti plant is toxic to cats due to the saponins it contains.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats cordyline plants: If your cat eats a part of a cordyline plant, she may display dilated pupils, vomiting (possibly with blood), hypersalivation, depression, and anorexia. In addition, be wary of the cordyline plant’s leaves, which are sharp and can physically harm your cat.
If you suspect that your cat came across a cordyline plant, speak with your veterinarian immediately. Monitor her for symptoms of poisoning. Aside from the aforementioned signs, she may also experience diarrhea, twitching and fitting, difficulty in breathing, shock, collapse, and coma. Changes in her eating, drinking, and urinating habits may also occur.
Take your cat to the emergency clinic if needed. Bring a sample of the cordyline plant with you to help the vet determine its toxins.
In summary: Cordyline plants have bright-coloured leaves in a wide variety of colours: green, purple, pink, yellow, and maroon. But because of the saponins present throughout the plant, it is not a good choice for cat owners and carers.
Play it safe by checking these lists from ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, and PetMD before bringing home a new houseplant or growing one in your backyard.
References:
Cordyline fruticosa – Wikipedia
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