Christmas cactus is a long-lasting blooming plants, and one of the very few plants that flower in the winter—but assuming it end up in the stomach of your cats or dogs, is a Christmas Cactus poisonous to cats and dogs?
In such circumstances, the lifespan and health of our pets are expected to be prioritized. Many flowers and plants that are rooted in our gardens or home environment in order to beautify our homes can also be deadly or poisonous when ingested by pets.
An example of such plant is Lilly. Lillies are toxic to cats’ kidneys and are unsafe to have around home environment where pets are kept.
Hence, the big question—are Christmas cactus poisonous to cats and dogs?
Christmas cactus is one of the holiday cactus—also considered as one of the family of the desert cactus. But compared to the latter, it is kept inside homes for indoor settings purposes. Christmas cactuses have flattened stems and brightly coloured pink flowers when they bloom, and can last for decades.
Are Christmas Cactus Toxic To Our Pets?
Generally, Christmas cactus is non-toxic to our pets, including cats and dogs if it is being ingested by them. However, the toxicity level depends on the amount of the christmas cactus being consumed.
If your cats or dogs ingested a small piece of Christmas cactus, they’ll probably be fine.
However, if they ingested a big amount of the flowery plant, they can experience gastrointestinal distress. Some of these include:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
The Medical Effects of Christmas Cactus Plants On Pets’ Health
The Medical Effects of Christmas Cactus Plants On Pets’ Health
Christmas cactus is listed as a non-toxic plants for both dogs and cats, as well as other pets.
However, the fact that it is stated to be non-toxic doesn’t mean it’s totally harmless to consume or ingest.
According to Margot Vahrenwald, DVM, owner of Park Hill Veterinary Medical Center in Denver. “While not toxic, a big dose of fibrous material could upset the stomach and cause vomiting and diarrhea.”
What Should I Do If My Cats or Dogs Eat a Christmas Cactus?
The first thing to do if you catch either your dogs or cats eating a Christmas cactus is to give your veterinarian that prompt call. At this point, it’s better to be less concerned about the amount ingested. This is because earlier intervention or care of your pets can reduce the risks and the discomfort that may come afterwards.
Another thing you can do is to get your cats or dogs an intestinal blockage supposedly you catch them eating a large junk or portion of the plant. You can therefore proceed in separating the pet cat or dogs that ingested the plant in a separate room for the purpose of close monitoring.
However, notice any of the diarrhoea symptoms afterwards, you should put a call through to your veterinarian immediately.
How Do I Stop My Cat or Dog From Eating Christmas Cactus?
One of the best ways to stop cats or dogs from eating Christmas cactus is to sprinkle cayenne pepper all over the plant. This will serve as a deterrent and prevent any casualty.
Another way to prevent cats or dogs from eating Christmas cactus is to plant it in a hanging basket, or where they can’t reach easily.
Which Other Holiday Plants Are Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
While a Christmas cactus is not poisonous to cats and dogs, there are other common Christmas plants and flowers that will. The following are holiday plants that are poisonous if ingested by your cat or dogs.
- Lilies
- Holly Berries
- Mistletoe
- Christmas Tree
- Amaryllis
- Christmas Rose
- Poinsettia
Conclusion
After verifying that Christmas cactus is not poisonous to cats and dogs, it is also recommended by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association (IVPA) to vacuum up loose Christmas tree needles and keep other plants up off the floor and out of curious pets’ reach.
