Are African Violets Poisonous to Cats? (Must Read)

No, African violets are not poisonous to cats. However, if a cat ingests any part of the plant, it could cause an upset stomach or other digestive issues in your pet.

It is important to keep African violets out of reach from curious cats and monitor them when they are around the plant. In addition, there are several precautions that can be taken to make sure your cat is safe.

Here in this blog post, I’ll provide information on the safety of African violets for cats, common signs of toxicity in cats and how to protect your pet. With a better understanding of the potential risks, you can ensure that these beautiful indoor plants are enjoyed safely by both you and your furry family member.

Let’s get started!

Why You Should Keep African Violets Away From Cats?

African violets are beautiful, delicate plants that come in a variety of colors and shapes. The bright blooms make them an attractive addition to any home, but they can be dangerous to cats.

1. Their Leaves and Stems Contain Microscopic Hairs

African violets contain microscopic hairs on the leaves and stems that can irritate a cats skin and eyes. If a cat rubs against or chomps on the plant, these hairs may be transferred to its fur and ingested. The ingestion of these hairs can cause digestive problems, such as vomiting and diarrhea.

2. Plant’s Root Systems Can Cause Choking

If your cat likes to chew on plants, the roots of African violets may cause it to choke. The small root systems are fragile and can get caught in your cat’s throat if ingested.

3. Fertilizers and Insecticides Can Be Toxic

Many African violets are treated with fertilizers and insecticides to promote healthy growth. These chemicals are toxic, even in small amounts, and can cause serious health problems if ingested by your cat.

4. Other Potential Health Risks

In addition to the problems described above, African violets can also cause skin and eye irritation. If ingested, they may even cause respiratory distress or even an allergic reaction.

Interesting Read: Are Angel Plants Toxic to Cats?

My Cat Chewed on My African Violet, Now What?

If your cat has chewed on or ingested any part of an African violet, it is important to monitor it for signs of toxicity. But remember eating or chewing one or two leaves or stems will not be fatal for your cat.

Common signs of toxicity in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling, and loss of appetite. If your cat is exhibiting any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Besides, here I’m gonna share some insightful tips to stop chewing or accidents.

1. Provide Your Cat Another Plant

I know it’s not always easy to find an alternative plant that your cat won’t try to chew. However, if you can find a non-toxic plant that your cat won’t chew, it can help reduce the risk of ingestion and other potential health problems.

2. Move Your African Violet to a Higher Place

Cats are curious animals, and they love to explore their surroundings. By moving your African violet to a higher place, such as a shelf or windowsill, you can help reduce the risk of it being chewed on or ingested by your pet.

3. Create a Barrier Around the Plant

If you don’t have the option of moving your African violet out of reach, consider creating a barrier around it. This can help discourage cats from getting too close to the plant, reducing the risk of accidental ingestion.

You can also read: Are Arrowhead Plants Toxic to Cats?

Is Vomiting Normal for Cats After Eating African Violet?

If your cat has vomited after eating African violet, don’t worry – it’s actually quite normal. African violets contain saponins, which are a type of natural toxin. When ingested in small amounts, saponins can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats.

However, these symptoms are usually not serious and will resolve on their own within a day or two. If your cat continues to vomit or has other symptoms such as lethargy or loss of appetite, however, it’s best to consult your veterinarian. In most cases, a little rest and plenty of fluids will help your cat recover from the effects of the saponins.

How Can I Protect My Cat From African Violets?

To protect your cat from the dangers of African violets, it is important to take a few precautions:

1. Keep the Plant Out of Reach

Keep African violets out of reach from cats, such as on a high shelf or out of the room entirely. If you have to keep them in the same room, make sure they are not within reach of your pet.

2. Monitor Your Cat Around The Plant

Whenever possible, monitor your cat when it is around African violets. This will allow you to be aware of any potential dangers and intervene if necessary.

3. Use Natural Fertilizers and Insecticides

Choose natural fertilizers and insecticides for your African violets, as these are less likely to be toxic for cats. This will help keep your pet safe while still keeping the plant healthy.

You Just Purchased an African Violet – Now What?

If you have recently purchased an African violet, there are a few steps that you should take to ensure your cat’s safety:

1. Ask the Store About Fertilizers and Insecticides

Before bringing the plant home, ask the store about the fertilizers and insecticides that were used on it. If it has been treated with chemical fertilizers or insecticides, consider finding a different plant.

2. Clean the Plant Thoroughly

Once you get the plant home, make sure to clean it thoroughly. This will help remove any potential toxins that may be present on the leaves or stems.

3. Place the Plant In a Safe Spot

Now that your African violet is clean, it’s time to find a safe place for it. Consider putting it in an area that is inaccessible to cats, such as a high shelf or in another room.

4. Monitor Your Cat When Around The Plant

Finally, it is important to monitor your cat when it is around African violets. By paying close attention, you can intervene if necessary to prevent any potential dangers.

By following these steps, you can help ensure the safety of your cat and African violets. With a little bit of vigilance, you can keep your pet safe while still enjoying the beauty of these plants.

My Final Thoughts

As you now know by chewing/eating one or two leaves of an African Violet is not something to worry about, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks.

If you suspect that your cat has ingested part or all of an African violet, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice. It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health of your pet.

By following the tips outlined above, you can help protect your African violets and keep your cat safe. With a bit of vigilance, you can enjoy all the benefits of these beautiful plants without any risks.

Good luck! I hope this article has been helpful in ensuring the safety of your African violets and cats.