As a beloved pet parent, the health and safety of our cat, dog, and other pet companions is always important.
But did you know that the Chinese money plant can cause serious threats to your curious cats? In this guide, we’ll explore if Chinese money plants are toxic to cats or not; if they are, then why? And if not, then why do some cats behave weirdly because of the Pilea plant?
Is the Chinese Money Plant Toxic to Cats?
The Chinese money plant is generally considered to be pet-friendly and not toxic to cats.
According to some reputable sources, including ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), it’s safe because they haven’t included Pilea in their list of toxic plants for pets.
This simply means if your cat is a little curious and playful with it or sniffing, it shouldn’t cause any problems, especially serious ones.
However, it’s still a good idea to keep an eye on your cats when she’s around Pilea or any other houseplants. Because eating or chewing large quantities could cause mild stomach upset or irritation. But overall, the Chinese money plant is considered safe for cats.
Risk chances when Chinese Money Plant can be Toxic to cats and dogs
As I said before, Chinese money plants are generally safe for pets, but there is one thing to note: the soil you’ve planted may contain harmful bacteria or fungi, which will cause problems for your cat or dog and cause digestive-related problems like upset stomach.
Therefore, it is always a better choice to discourage cats from digging in or consuming the soil.
The main bacteria that can cause problems for your cat are Salmonella, E. coli, and other tiny, invisible particles. Usually, they cause stomach-related problems like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea when your pet accidentally consumes soil or leaves.
And these bacteria and microorganisms aren’t only toxic for your cat or dog but also for your young children, who may try to test that plant.
How to minimize the toxic risk of Chinese money plants to your cat?
While the Chinese money plant is non-toxic to cats, there are still some safety measures you need to take as a pet owner to minimize any potential risks.
The main concern with the Pilea and cats is the chance for gastrointestinal issues if your cat consumes it. Plant leaves and stems can contain bacteria, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other stomach problems.
To keep your cat safe from Chinese money plant, I’d recommend the following tips:
Keep the Pilea plant out of cat’s reach
Make sure to place your Chinese money plant in an area where your cat can’t reach it, for example on a high shelf or tabletop.
By doing so, your kitty won’t get too curious and want it to touch or sniff again and again, so she won’t be able to nibble on the leaves.
Discourage your Kitty or dog
You can also try to use pet-safe deterrents around the plant, for example, citrus peels, and essential oils like Peppermint. Usually, cat doesn’t like their smell, so they won’t feel comfortable around that plant.
So that’s one of the ways you can create barriers for your cat and plant.
Distract your cat
You can provide different types of enrichment, toys, and other alternatives so that your cat doesn’t try to get curious with a Chinese money plant.
By doing so you can divert your cat’s attention away from Pilea.
Supervision
That’s the simplest method, whenever possible just keep an eye on your cat, especially if you both are in the same room. And ensure your cat doesn’t try to ingest it.
Symptoms of Chinese Money Plant Toxicity in Cats
There are basically three types of symptoms that you can see in your cats: Gastrointestinal Upset, Oral Irritation, and Lethargy. Let’s know their symptoms one-by-one:
Gastrointestinal Upset: If your cat nibbles Pilea leaves, she may get some digestive-related issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. That might happen due to the plant’s oxalate content.
Oral Irritation: The plant’s leaves and stems contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause painful irritation and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips if the cat chews on them.
Lethargy: Sometimes your cat might feel lethargy in which she will look tired, sluggish, lacking energy, other symptoms like drowsiness, sleepiness, or weariness are also common in lethargy.
What to Do If Your Cat Ingests the Plant
If your cat nibbles a Chinese money plant, the first thing you need to do is remove the plant from its place and then monitor your cat for any signs of distress; it can be drooling, vomiting, or difficulty in swallowing.
If we talk about first aid, then you can provide some fresh water to your cat because it can reduce any irritation in her mouth. Besides this, don’t give her any other food or drink, because it could worsen the situation.
If you see your cat is getting sick due to a Chinese money plant, the best thing is to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
You need to take your cat to the Veterinarians for an examination and treatment, and they’ll also provide you with the medicine or whatever is needed.
Common myths about the Chinese money plant’s toxicity
There are three common myths about the Chinese money plant’s toxicity, let’s discuss them one by one.
Myths-1: China money plant is toxic to pet
The first myth is that many people think Chinese money plants are toxic to pets, especially cats and dogs. However, this isn’t true at all.
It’s not highly toxic but you still need to keep it away from your curious pets. The Pilea does contain small amounts of oxalates, which can cause problems otherwise it’s safe.
Myths-2: Chinese money plant’s leaves are poisonous
The second most common myth is that the Chinese money plant’s leaves are poisonous to humans. Which is totally a lie about it.
In fact, its leaves are actually edible and can be consumed but in small amounts. But remember, It doesn’t mean to start making a whole new meal, but nibbling here and there is generally okay for people.
Myths-3: Chinese money plants are Killer
The third and the final myth is that the Pilea is a “killer plant” which can remove oxygen from the air and make a room unsafe for humans.
Ah… man, that’s totally false; most plants, including these Pilea peperomioides, absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen through photosynthesis.
Safe Houseplant Alternatives for Cat Owners
There are many safe plant alternatives for cats. If she’s not like the Chinese money plant, you can consider having Spider Plant, Sword Fern, African violets, Money Tree, etc.
These plants are cat friendly and good for indoor planting.
Conclusion
Overall, Chinese money plants aren’t toxic; they’re safe for cats, dogs, and other pets; besides this, they won’t harm any human. But it’s still better not to let your pet touch it.
The soil or leaves may contain some bacteria, which will cause problems, but in general, everything is fine, so there is nothing to worry about your cat. Plus, you can also keep it away from your cat or young children’s reach if you have any.