Are String Of Turtles Toxic To Cats: What You Need To KnowFrequently Asked Questions

Oleh Jodi Nicolas June 03, 2023 Post a Comment

If you're a cat owner and also have a love for indoor gardening, you may be wondering whether the string of turtles (Peperomia prostrata) plant is safe to keep in your home. With its adorable little leaves that resemble turtle shells, it's no wonder this trailing plant has become so popular. But before you add it to your collection, it's important to know whether or not it poses any danger to your feline friends.

Understanding String of Turtles and Its Toxicity

String of turtles, like many other plants, contains certain compounds that can be toxic to cats if ingested. These compounds include saponins, oxalates, and insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Saponins are known to cause gastrointestinal irritation, while oxalates and calcium oxalate crystals can cause oral and throat irritation as well as vomiting.

It's worth noting that the level of toxicity in the string of turtles plant is considered to be mild to moderate. This means that if your cat happens to take a nibble, they may experience some discomfort but are unlikely to suffer from serious harm. However, it's still important to take precautions to ensure your furry friend stays safe.

Signs of Plant Poisoning in Cats

Before we dive into how to keep your cat safe around the string of turtles plant, it's important to understand the signs of plant poisoning in cats. These can vary depending on the type of plant and the amount ingested, but some common symptoms include:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Drooling
Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Difficulty breathing
Swelling or redness of the mouth or tongue
Increased heart rate

If you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant, it's important to contact your veterinarian immediately.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe Around String of Turtles

Now that you know the potential risks of the string of turtles plant, let's talk about how to keep your cat safe. Here are some tips:

Keep the plant out of reach: The easiest way to prevent your cat from ingesting the plant is to keep it in a location that's inaccessible to them. Consider hanging the plant from a ceiling hook or placing it on a high shelf.
Use deterrents: Cats are known for their curiosity, so sometimes simply keeping the plant out of reach isn't enough. You can try using deterrents like bitter apple spray or double-sided tape to discourage your cat from getting too close.
Train your cat: If you have a particularly curious cat, you may need to train them to stay away from the plant. This can be with positive reinforcement training, where you reward your cat for staying away from the plant and redirect their attention to a toy or treat.
Choose alternative plants: If you're still worried about the potential risk, you may want to consider choosing an alternative plant that's non-toxic to cats. Some options include spider plants, African violets, and bamboo.

Can Cats Eat String of Turtles?

No, cats should not eat string of turtles. As mentioned earlier, the plant contains compounds that can be toxic to cats if ingested. While your cat may be drawn to the plant's leaves, it's important to keep them from nibbling on it.

What Should You Do If Your Cat Eats String of Turtles?

If you suspect your cat has eaten any part of the string of turtles plant, it's important to contact your veterinarian right away. Depending on the amount ingested and the severity of the symptoms, your cat may require medical treatment.

Other Toxic Plants to Keep Away from Cats

While the string of turtles plant may be a concern for cat owners, it's not the only plant to watch out for. Here are some other common plants that can be toxic to cats:

Lilies
Aloe vera
Pothos
Philodendron
Snake plant
ZZ plant
English ivy
Peace lily
Schefflera
Rubber plant

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while the string of turtles plant is considered to have mild to moderate toxicity for cats, it's still important to take precautions to keep your furry friend safe. By keeping the plant out of reach, using deterrents, training your cat, and choosing alternative non-toxic plants, you can enjoy your indoor garden without worrying about your cat's safety.

1. Can string of turtles cause death in cats?

No, string of turtles is considered to have mild to moderate toxicity in cats. While it can cause discomfort and potentially serious symptoms if ingested in large quantities, it's unlikely to cause death.

2. Are there any safe trailing plants for cats?

Yes, there are plenty of non-toxic trailing plants that are safe for cats. Some examples include spider plants, African violets, and bamboo.

3. What should I do if my cat ingests a toxic plant?

If you suspect your cat has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian right away. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, your cat may require medical treatment.

4. How can I train my cat to stay away from plants?

Positive reinforcement training can be effective in training your cat to stay away from plants. Reward your cat for staying away from the plant and redirect their attention to a toy or treat.

5. Are there any outdoor plants that are toxic to cats?

Yes, there are many outdoor plants that can be toxic to cats. Some examples include lilies, azaleas, rhododendrons, and tulips.

6. Can string of turtles cause skin irritation in cats?

It's possible that the sap from the string of turtles plant could cause skin irritation in cats if they come into contact with it. However, ingestion is a bigger concern when it comes to toxicity.

7. What are some signs of plant poisoning in cats?

Common signs of plant poisoning in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, loss of appetite, lethargy, difficulty breathing, swelling or redness of the mouth or tongue, and increased heart rate.

8. How can I keep my cat safe around plants?

To keep your cat safe around plants, keep toxic plants out of reach, use deterrents like bitter apple spray, train your cat to stay away from plants, and choose non-toxic alternatives.

9. Is string of turtles toxic to other pets besides cats?

While string of turtles is considered to have mild to moderate toxicity in cats, it may not be toxic to other pets such as dogs or rabbits. However, it's always best to do your research and consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new plants to your home.

10. What should I do if I'm not sure if a plant is toxic to cats?

If you're not sure whether a plant is toxic to cats, it's best to err on the side of caution and keep it out of reach. You can also consult with your veterinarian or do research online to learn more about specific plants and their potential risks.