No, rattlesnake plants are not toxic to cats.
An evergreen perennial plant native to Rio de Janeiro, the rattlesnake plant has two scientific names: Calathea lancifolia and Goeppertia insignis. It used to belong to the Calathea genus, but now falls under Goeppertia. Its unique foliage consists of long, wavy green leaves with dark green markings and violet undersides.
Multiple sources including the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) reports that rattlesnake plants are non-toxic to cats. The roots, branches, stems, or leaves have no toxic compounds that can endanger your kitty. Therefore, you can grow it around your feline pet, but with some precautions.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats a rattlesnake plant: Nothing unfortunate should occur if your cat brushes her body against it. The same holds true if she decides to chew on them. But be careful if the plant has been sprayed with dangerous pesticides or toxic fertilisers. Keep it away from her to prevent poisoning.
If you suspect that your cat ate a rattlesnake plant with toxic chemicals, contact your veterinarian immediately. Observe her for signs of poisoning, and keep her in an enclosed area. Watch for hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty in breathing, twitching and fitting, and shock or collapse. Depression or coma, skin inflammation or swelling, and changes in her drinking, urinating, and eating may also manifest.
Additionally, cats that eat too much plant matter in one sitting may experience gastrointestinal issues. Remember that as obligate carnivores, they do not have the ability to digest large amounts of plants properly. The parts that are hard to chew may also cause choking and/or intestinal blockage.
In summary: Rattlesnake plants are beautiful, low maintenance houseplants that can grow in the homes of cat parents. If you already own a variety of indoor plants, find out how you can cat-proof them by reading this article.
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