Yes, croton plants are mildly toxic to cats.
The Codiaeum variegatum is a gorgeous plant that falls under the genus Codiaeum. It’s also known as garden croton, fire croton, and variegated croton. Native to countries such as Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia, this garden plant is different from the genus Croton that contains over 700 species.
The croton plant is popular because of its beautiful leaves, which may have varying shapes, sizes, textures, and colours. Spirale (with long, spiral, twisted red and green leaves), Andreanum (with broad, oval yellow leaves), and Majesticum (with yellow or red linear leaves that grow up to 25 centimetres long) are some popular cultivars.
Just like other plants belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae, the croton plant’s milky sap can cause skin-related problems. This is because its bark, roots, leaves, and latex contain 5-deoxygenol, a poisonous chemical compound. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, this ornamental plant can cause mild irritations in your pet cat. Consuming it can lead to gastrointestinal and oral issues.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats croton plants: Observe your cat for any strange symptoms after she comes into contact with the plant’s leaves, stems, roots, or flowers. Place her in a confined space so you can keep watch on her. Croton plant ingestion can cause a burning sensation in her mouth. Thus, she is most likely to exhibit excess drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea.
In summary: If you’re a cat owner who wants to bring home a croton plant, make sure to grow it somewhere inaccessible to your pet. Aside from being toxic to cats, the plant and seeds are also toxic to humans when ingested.
Before you consider buying a new houseplant or bringing home a bouquet of flowers, search through the lists of ASPCA, PetMD, and Pet Poison Helpline. They’ll help you determine if a plant is toxic or safe for cats.
References:
Codiaeum variegatum – Wikipedia
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