Is Alstroemeria Toxic to Cats? (Different Studies)

No, according to ASPCA alstroemeria is not toxic to cats. The plant sometimes referred to as a lily or Peruvian lily, is actually quite safe for cats and other pets when consumed in small amounts.

Alstroemeria can be an attractive addition to your home or garden, providing cheerful colors and interesting foliage that will make any area look inviting. The plant is also known for its long-lasting blooms, making it an excellent choice for floral arrangements or even as a gift.

Here in this blog post, I’ll discuss why alstroemeria is not toxic to cats and provide tips on how you can keep your pet safe. I’ll also answer frequently asked questions about the plant and its toxicity. By the end of this post, you should have a better understanding of alstroemeria safety for cats!

So let’s get started!

Different Studies on Alstroemeria Non-toxicity on Cats

When it comes to pet owners, the safety of their beloved furry friends is always the top priority. Azaleas are beautiful flowering shrubs often found in gardens and yards, but these lovely blooms can be potentially toxic to cats if ingested. Fortunately, there have been a number of studies conducted on azaleas that have determined that some varieties may not be as toxic as previously thought. 

The first study was conducted by the University of Georgia, which found that the deciduous azalea bushes native to North America were non-toxic to cats, with no signs of adverse reactions seen in test subjects. This study was also published by the esteemed pet website PetMD, which regularly provides useful information on pet health matters. 

Following this study, a second one was conducted by Clemson University’s Department of Plant Industry that looked at the toxicity of various Japanese evergreen azaleas to cats.

This research indicated that none of the studied azaleas proved to be poisonous for cats when ingested in normal amounts. The results were echoed by the respected pet website Pet360 which explains that certain species may still contain toxins, but they are generally too low for them to have any major effect on pets.

More recently, a third experiment was conducted at Texas A&M University’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences which focused specifically on rhododendrons and their potential toxicity toward cats.

The researchers found that most hybridized forms tended not to cause any extreme reactions or cases of poisoning when consumed by cats, although eating large quantities could still lead to mild discomforts such as vomiting and diarrhea.

These findings were again verified by another well-known pet care resource called Pet Poisons Helpline who stated that while there is still some risk associated with ingesting azaleas and rhododendrons, most animals will only suffer from mild stomach upset rather than serious illness or death. 

Also Read: Is Cordyline Toxic to Cats? (What Symptoms..)

Are Some Cats Love to Chew on Alstroemeria?

A common question amongst cat owners is whether their cats love to chew on alstroemeria or not. The short answer is that while some cats may find the plant interesting, they are unlikely to actually consume it and suffer any adverse effects due to its non-toxicity.

That being said, all pet owners should still take precautions when introducing any type of vegetation into their home and keep an eye on their pets when they are in the vicinity of plants.

What If Your Cat Accidentally Ingests Alstroemeria?

Cats are naturally curious creatures, so they may still be tempted to try and sample your houseplants. The good news is that there are no known long-term health risks associated with ingesting alstroemeria.

If your feline consumes too much of the alstroemeria plant, here are a few potential side effects:

Although it is highly unlikely that your cat will suffer any major health issues due to ingesting alstroemeria, it may still be wise to consult your local veterinarian if you believe your pet has been exposed to the plant. Your vet may be able to offer advice on any further steps you could take to ensure your cat remains healthy.

Is Vomiting Normal for Cats After Eating Alstroemeria?

Vomiting is a common symptom when a cat ingests an unknown substance, and alstroemeria is no exception. In most cases, this is a normal reaction to the plant and should pass without any further complications.

If your cat continues to vomit despite not showing any other signs of distress or discomfort, you may want to seek veterinary advice as it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. It is also important to ensure that your cat maintains a healthy diet and is not consuming any other plant matter which could cause additional health risks.

How Much is Too Much Alstroemeria for Cats?

After reading all the above information, you may be wondering how much alstroemeria is too much for cats. The answer depends on the size of your pet and any underlying health conditions they may have.

It is generally recommended that cats should not eat more than a few leaves or petals of alstroemeria in one sitting. To make this easier to understand, I’ll try to provide an informative table to give you a better idea of the recommended consumption for cats:

Size of Pet	Proportion for Healthy Cats	Proportion for Unhealthy/Pregnant Cats
Small Cat	Up to 3 leaves/petal	Up to 2 leaves/petals
Medium Cat	Up to 5 leaves/petals	Up to 3 leaves/petals
Large Cat	Up to 7 leaves/petals	Up to 4 leaves/petals

Attention: It is important to note that the above table is intended as a guide only. If you are ever unsure about how much alstroemeria is safe for your cat, it is best to consult your local veterinarian for further advice.

Tips on Keeping Alstroemeria Safe from Cats

From the above information, it is clear that alstroemeria can be a safe and enjoyable plant for cats when consumed in moderation. If you are worried about your pet getting into the plant, here are a few tips to keep them safe:

1. Place Alstroemeria Out of Reach 

It may be tempting to keep your alstroemeria next to your cat’s favorite spot on the sofa, but be sure to keep it out of reach. Place the plant in a high enough location that your cat can’t jump or climb onto it, such as a high shelf or mantelpiece.

2. Choose Alstroemeria Varieties with Low or No Toxicity

There are certain varieties of alstroemeria which contain higher levels of toxins than others. It is wise to research the different types and select ones with low or no toxicity to keep your cats safe.

Here’s how you can tell if a variety is more or less toxic:

3. Plant Alstroemeria in an Unreachable Area

If you have an outdoor garden and like to grow Alstroemeria, consider planting it in areas which are difficult for cats to access. Areas such as a raised bed or an enclosed greenhouse are great for keeping your cats safe.

Additionally, if you have other pets such as dogs, it is important to consider their curiosity too. Make sure the area is secure and cats and other animals can’t access it.

4. Use a Plant Cover 

If you’re still concerned about your cat getting into the plant, consider investing in a plant cover or mesh netting. This will prevent your cats from getting close enough to consume any of the leaves or petals.

Here’s a how-to guide on how to make a simple plant cover:

5. Monitor Your Cats

Finally, it is important to monitor your cats when they are near the plant. Be sure to keep an eye on them and take them away if they seem to be getting too close.

My Final Thoughts

Alstroemeria is generally safe for cats when consumed in moderation. But it is wise to take precautions, such as keeping the plant out of reach and using a cover. If you are ever unsure, it is best to consult your local veterinarian for further advice.

Hopefully, this article has given you some useful information about alstroemeria safety for cats. Have fun with your pet-friendly plants!