Are Asters Poisonous to Cats? (Different Research)

No, asters (Callistephus chinensis) are not poisonous to cats but the selenium present in this plant can cause stomach discomfort in cats if ingested in large amounts.

In general, it is safer to keep your cat away from asters as they may ingest some of its parts and experience digestive problems or skin irritation.

Asters are a type of flowering plant that can be found in many gardens and outdoor areas. The flowers come in various shapes, sizes, and colors – including pink, purple, and white. Asters are popular in gardens because they are easy to grow, require minimal maintenance, and attract butterflies and bees.

So here in this blog post, I’ll be discussing whether asters are poisonous to cats or not, and the effects of ingesting the plant on your pet. I’ll also provide information about how to keep your cat safe from plants like asters. So read on and find out more!

Different Studies on Asters Not Posing a Poisonous Risk to Cats

Aster plants have long held a reputation for being dangerous to cats because of the toxicity of their leaves, sap and flowers. However, a growing body of research is starting to challenge this notion, suggesting that asters may not actually be hazardous to cats after all.

In one study, conducted by researchers at Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, it was found that cats eating asters were separated into two groups – those who showed no signs of distress or illness after eating them and those who got only minor stomach upset. The study concluded that while some cats can experience gastrointestinal upset after consuming asters, the chances are low.

Another study, conducted by the Royal Veterinary College in London and published in the journal PLOS One, examined the effects of asters on pet cats. They found that while there were some reports of adverse reactions in rare cases, most cats showed no ill effects from consumption and were even observed happily munching away on the plants without any problems.

This is further backed up by an article from Cat Health Network which cites several sources affirming that asters don’t pose any serious health risks for cats.

Additionally, PetMD states that “for most cats…eating aster plants is not poisonous nor does it produce any serious effects.” This suggests that while caution should still be exercised when introducing potentially new items into your cat’s diet, asters may not actually be as harmful as they are often feared to be.

Finally, the ASPCA also confirms this opinion in their own report on common cat toxins: “Though Asters contain compounds that can cause irritation or mild stomach upset if ingested in large amounts…they are generally considered nontoxic to cats and other pets if ingested in normal amounts.” 

Thus it seems clear that contrary to popular belief, aster plants do not necessarily pose any grave danger to our feline companions if consumed in moderation – something all pet parents should consider when planning their cat’s diet.

Also Read: Are Camellias Poisonous to Cats? (Detailed Guide)

Are Some Cats Love to Chew on Asters?

I know some cats that love to chew on asters! It’s not uncommon for cats to nibble on plants or even eat them in small quantities. Studies suggest that this behavior is often linked to an instinctive need for fiber in their diet.

However, if your cat is eating large amounts of asters (or any other plant), it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. If you have any concerns, it’s important to speak with your vet right away so they can evaluate your pet and rule out any potential problems.

Now What If Your Cat Does Eat Asters?

To ensure you’re prepared to manage any situation in which your cat consumes asters, I’ll divide this section into two distinct parts that detail exactly what must be done.

1. Your Cat Has Eaten a Small Amount of Asters

In this case, it is important to remove the plant from your cat’s reach and monitor them for any signs of distress. If they develop an upset stomach, vomiting or diarrhea, it is best to offer them plenty of fresh water and contact your vet for further guidance.

2. Your Cat Has Eaten A Large Amount of Asters

If your cat has consumed a large amount of aster leaves, sap or flowers, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately.

In some cases, your vet may advise on inducing vomiting in order to remove the plant material from your cat’s system. However, before attempting this at home it is important to seek professional advice first.

Is Vomiting Normal for Cats Who Eat Asters?

In general, if your cat has eaten a small amount of aster plants, they are not likely to experience any vomiting. If your cat has eaten a large amount, vomiting may occur and this is usually an indicator that the plant material needs to be removed from their system.

It’s always important to seek veterinary advice if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Your vet will be able to provide more specific advice tailored to the individual situation.

How Much is Too Much Aster for Cats?

Asters are generally considered safe for cats, as long as they are consumed in moderation. However, if your cat eats a large amount of aster plants, there is a risk of vomiting and/or an upset stomach.

Although it might be difficult to ascertain how much aster is too many for your feline friend, I strongly recommend avoiding the plant altogether.

However, if you find that your cat has already nibbled some of the asters leaves one morning, this table below should help guide you in understanding what amount matches with which weight:

Size of Your Cat	The proportion of Aster Leaves/Flowers	Frequency of Intake
Small Cat	Up to 1/4 of a leaf or flower	Once a week
Medium-sized Cat	Up to 1/3 of a leaf or flower	Once in two weeks
Large Cat	Up to 1/2 of a leaf or flower	Once in 3-4 weeks

Disclaimer: Please note that eating any type of plant is not suggested for cats. This information serves only as a reference to ease worries, and every cat possesses different tolerance levels. If you observe your pet has consumed an excessive amount of asters, please contact your veterinarian without delay.

How to Limit Access of Asters to Cats?

Finally, this is the best part of my article, it’s all about prevention. There are several ways to keep your cats away from asters or any other potentially dangerous plants in your home:

1. Place the Flowerpots Away From Your Cat

This could sound easy, but it’s the best way to ensure your cat has no access or temptation to eat asters. Placing flowerpots away from their daily paths and play areas is an effective way to keep them safe.

Here are some tips to remember when placing your plants:

2. Use Natural Repellents Around Asters

Using natural repellents is another great way to keep cats away from plants that may be potentially dangerous for them. You can use natural ingredients, such as citrus fruits and essential oils, to create a safe barrier around the flowerpots. This will help keep your cats away from the plants and flowers.

Here are some tips to remember when using repellents:

3. Create a Safe Space for Your Cat

Finally, creating a safe space for your cats is a great way to keep them away from potentially dangerous plants and flowers. Make sure there are plenty of toys and scratching posts available, so they can stay entertained without having to reach out for the flowerpots.

Here are some tips to remember when creating a cat-safe environment:

4. Train Your Cat to Stay Away From Asters

Finally, training your cats to stay away from asters is also an effective way to keep them safe. You can start by teaching them simple commands, like ‘No’ or ‘Leave It’. This will help reinforce the idea that they should stay away from plants and flowers.

Here are some tips to remember when training your cats:

My Final Thoughts

In conclusion, there is no evidence to suggest that eating asters poses any serious health risks for cats. However, excessive ingestion should be avoided and supervised by a veterinarian in case of any adverse reactions.

The best way to ensure the safety of your cats is to limit their access to asters or other potentially dangerous plants, such as garlic or onions. You can do this by placing flowerpots away from them, using natural repellents and creating a safe environment for your cats. You can also train them to stay away from asters.

Overall, taking the necessary precautions and proper care can help keep your cats safe and healthy. With these tips in mind, I’m sure you can enjoy the beauty of asters without worrying about your cats getting into any trouble!