Holiday plants that can be dangerous for cats

Decorating your house for Christmas and New Year, you create a festive atmosphere in it, but we must not forget that many plants are dangerous for cats.

It is hard to resist the temptation to put a living holiday tree in the house, of which there are so many on sale at this time of the year. Unfortunately, some of the more popular ones are harmful and even poisonous to animals. Avoid the following holiday plants to keep your kitty safe during the holidays.

Pine

The authors of the Petcha website note that pine is toxic to cats because it can cause fatal liver disease in them. If you decide to put a live tree, choose spruce or fir. In addition, you need to regularly remove loose needles – no matter which tree you choose – because the needles are sharp and can injure the kitten’s internal organs. Close the stand on which the tree stands so that the cat cannot drink water from it. As for artificial trees, they are dangerous because your pet can knock them over or swallow dangerous decor elements: tinsel, ribbons, serpentine, beads. Cats can be very mischievous and will not miss the opportunity to take a closer look at all these flickering lights, climbing a tree that the owners brought. It is best to securely attach the tree to the base to prevent it from tipping over and harming the household and the animal itself. Decorate the tree only with decorations large enough that the cat cannot swallow, and try to choose decorations without sharp corners. Securely fasten them to the tree so that the pet is not tempted to pluck them from there. Always turn off the lights when you leave to prevent the kitten from getting an electric shock.

Mistletoe and yarrow

If you want to decorate your front door with a wreath of mistletoe or holly (holly), you will have to opt for artificial plants. PetMD warns that “swallowing even small amounts of the leaves or berries of these plants can cause stomach upset.” Large amounts can lead to life-threatening cardiovascular dysfunction. Due to the high toxicity of these plants for cats, it is recommended to completely abandon them. Even if the jewelry is out of your pet’s reach, think twice. Cats are agile and curious creatures that will find a way to get to them.

Amaryllis

Amaryllis is a welcome guest on the eve of the holidays, because it is very interesting to watch how the bulb turns into a long, fabulous flower. However, this plant is very poisonous to cats (and dogs) due to the presence of a substance called lycorine in it. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), your pet may experience reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors. Do not bring this plant into the house!

Familiarize yourself with other plants that may be harmful or toxic to cats, VCA veterinary clinics recommend. For example, lilies are very dangerous for animals, but are often found in holiday bouquets. If your cat has ingested a poisonous holiday plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Luckily, there are luxurious fake plants out there that will create just as festive a vibe as real ones (and don’t need to be watered!). Take a close look at your local craft or home store for some ideas, or make your own. Make sure that they are free of easily detachable elements that your four-legged friend can swallow.

If your cat is especially curious, find a way to distract her from the holiday decorations: offer her a new scratching post or toy, or a tower of her own to climb on so she won’t be tempted to climb the holiday tree. It is best to teach your pet to stay away from holiday decorations. By protecting the cat from dangerous plants, you will ensure both yourself and her a fun holiday!