Yes, corn plants are toxic to cats.
Corn plants are common household plants that are not safe for cats. Its scientific name is Dracaena fragrans, but it is also known as compact dracaena, cornstalk dracaena/plant, dracaena, dragon tree, and ribbon plant. It’s a beautiful plant that bears flowers and fruits and has long, glossy leaves.
Not to be mistaken for edible corn, corn plants belong to the family Asparagaceae—just like lucky bamboo plants. As such, it comes as no surprise that it is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. When eaten, the saponin from the various parts of the ornamental plant can cause unwanted side effects.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats corn plants: Contact your veterinarian and inform them of the situation. Be sure to take away the plant, and place her in a confined space so you can observe her closely.
ASPCA reminds cat owners to observe their pet for clinical signs such as dilated pupils, depression, anorexia, hypersalivation, and vomiting (possibly with blood). The plant can also cause increased heart rate and difficulty in breathing.
Other general symptoms of poisoning to watch for include changes in her drinking/urinating/eating, diarrhea, twitching and fitting, shock, collapse, depression, and coma.
In summary: If you are a parent to curious cats, refrain from growing dracaena fragrans in your home or backyard. Exposure to this plant may cause unnecessary harm to your feline pet, which may lead to a trip to the emergency vet clinic.
Before you consider receiving a potted plant or buying a bouquet of flowers, check out these lists by ASPCA, PetMD, and Pet Poison Helpline. They’ll help you determine which plants are safe and toxic for cats.
References:
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. All fields are required.