Spider plants are a popular houseplant known for their long, green leaves with white stripes. They are easy to care for, propagate quickly, and help purify indoor air. But are spider plants toxic to cats?
An Overview of Spider Plant Toxicity
The answer is generally no – spider plants are considered non-toxic for cats and dogs by the ASPCA. The plants and leaves are not poisonous if ingested by pets.
However, there are a few caveats to be aware of:
- The long leaves and shoots can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or obstruction if eaten in very large quantities. But a nibble here or there is not a concern.
- Cats may experience mild nausea or vomit if a lot of spider plant leaves are ingested, simply because they are not digestible, not due to toxicity.
- Spider plants produce minor secondary plant compounds like saponins and tannins that may cause temporary GI irritation. But these are in very low levels and not harmful.
So in summary, spider plants are not dangerously toxic or poisonous, but eating a lot could cause vomiting or diarrhea until the leaves pass through. The biggest risk is gastrointestinal obstruction if strands or strips of leaves are swallowed.
Why Spider Plants Are Generally Safe
There are a few reasons why spider plants are non-toxic for cats:
- They do not contain toxic chemicals or compounds – Unlike plants like lilies, sago palms, or azaleas, spider plants do not produce or contain alkaloids, glycosides, oxalates, or other poisonous substances even in small amounts.
- No toxins or allergens – Spider plant leaves do not contain proteins or compounds that are known irritants or allergens for cats. Some cats have sensitivities to plants like ficus or diffenbachia, but spider plants are hypoallergenic.
- Not part of toxic plant families – Spider plants belong to a family of plants (Asparagaceae) that are generally non-toxic and safe for cats. Other plants in this family like asparagus ferns are also fine for felines.
So spider plants have a clean bill of health when it comes to toxicity and cats. Their long-term safety is one reason they are so widely recommended for cat-friendly plantings.
Signs of Spider Plant Poisoning in Cats
Because they are not toxic, spider plants do not cause common signs of plant poisoning in cats like:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Lethargy
- Hypersalivation
- Difficulty breathing
With most poisonous plants, these symptoms can start within hours of ingestion.
But with spider plants, at most your cat may vomit if they’ve eaten a very large quantity of leaves. The vomit may contain undigested pieces of the leaves. They also may have slightly softened stool or diarrhea if a lot of spider plant material passes through the GI tract.
Overall, spider plants will not cause toxic reactions in cats like other poisonous houseplants can. But as a precaution, do not let your cat use the long spider plant leaves as a toy and ingest many at once.
Are Spider Plants Poisonous to Other Pets?
Here is a quick look at spider plant toxicity and other household pets:
Dogs
Non-toxic. Like cats, dogs can ingest a small-moderate amount of spider plant leaves with minimal issues. But eating a lot could potentially cause GI upset. Overall, spider plants are not poisonous or toxic for canines.
Rabbits
Non-toxic. Spider plants are safe for bunnies to nibble on. The leaves offer trace minerals rabbits can benefit from. They will likely not eat large amounts to cause GI problems.
Birds
Non-toxic. Parrots and other caged birds can eat spider plant leaves. The plant material provides nutrients and enrichment. Monitor to ensure overconsumption does not occur leading to loose droppings.
Reptiles
Non-toxic. Spider plants are considered safe for reptile enclosures and tortoises to eat. Some lizards, like bearded dragons, can also eat the leaves in moderation.
Rodents
Non-toxic. Small pets like guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, and rats can munch on spider plant leaves safely. But avoid overfeeding to prevent diarrhea.
So for all common household pets – cats, dogs, small mammals, birds, and reptiles – spider plants are not toxic and can be ingested in moderation without poisoning.
Are All Spider Plant Varieties Safe for Cats?
There are a few different varieties and cultivars of spider plants:
- Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’ – The classic green and white striped leaves.
- ‘Cream Stripe’ – Cream colored stripes instead of white.
- ‘Golden Glow’ – Yellow and green variegated leaves.
- ‘Curlies’ – Thinner curly leaves.
- ‘Bonnie’ – Solid green leaves without stripes.
These all belong to the same Chlorophytum comosum species and do not have any major differences in their plant chemistry or toxicity. So cats can safely nibble on any spider plant variety – the variegated and striped types are not more toxic compared to the solid green types.
However, the ‘Hawaiian’ cultivar of spider plants may be an exception. There are mixed reports on whether these contain saponins or other compounds at slightly higher levels. To be safe, it’s best to keep cats away from Chlorophytum comosum ‘Hawaiian’ until more definitive toxicity information is available.
Risks of Spider Plants for Cats
Though not poisonous, a few risks of spider plants for cats include:
Gastrointestinal Blockage
If a cat consumes and swallows a long piece of a spider plant leaf, there is a small chance it could cause an intestinal blockage or motility issue. Chewing well can prevent this. But monitor cats that like to bite off and ingest longer pieces.
Allergies
Rarely, some cats may be allergic to compounds in the spider plant leaves. This could cause itchiness or gastrointestinal upset. Discontinue access if this occurs.
Indigestion
Eating too many spider plant leaves may cause indigestion in some cats. This can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. Limit access to prevent overconsumption.
Pesticide Poisoning
Using toxic pesticides or fertilizers on your spider plants could poison cats that ingest the leaves. Always choose organic, cat-safe products.
Overall however, these risks are quite minor when compared to the serious toxic effects of lilies, azaleas, oleander, and other poisonous plants for cats. Spider plants can be ingested in small-moderate amounts safely.
How Much Is Too Much Spider Plant for Cats?
There is no definitive toxic dose or set amount of spider plant leaves that is dangerous for cats. The ASPCA does not list a toxic quantity because spider plants are generally very safe.
However, ingesting a large number of leaves at once may cause vomiting or diarrhea. Here are some general guidelines on spider plant consumption:
- Occasional nibbling – A bite here and there of a leaf tip is fine. Most cats will not ingest more than 1-3 leaves a day.
- Eating several leaves – If your cat consumes 5-10 medium/large leaves at a time, monitor them closely. Consider limiting access temporarily.
- Eating consistently over time – Your cat eating 1-3 leaves daily over many weeks is likely not an issue. But limit intake if they start regularly consuming 10+ leaves per day.
- Swallowing longer leaf pieces – Chewed up smaller pieces are safer. Keep an eye on cats who swallow longer strips of leaves which could cause GI obstructions.
Remember that any vomiting or diarrhea that occurs from overconsumption should resolve itself as the plant matter passes through the digestive system. If you notice these signs, limit access to allow your cat’s stomach to rest.
Steps to Keep Cats Safe Around Spider Plants
Though not very toxic, here are some tips for keeping cats safe around spider plants:
- Place spider plants out of reach of cats, like on high shelves they cannot access. Cats are less likely to bother hard-to-reach plants.
- Keep the area around the spider plants clean and free of fallen or broken leaves and pieces. Cats may try to eat these from the floor.
- Provide alternative green plants for your cat like cat grass or catnip. These give them an acceptable outlet for their grass-chewing instinct.
- Monitor playful kittens or curious cats that are showing an interest in sampling the spider plant leaves. Limit their access before overconsumption occurs.
- Avoid using fertilizers or pesticides on your spider plants if they are within reach of cats. Organic, pet-safe options are ideal.
- Keep plenty of fresh water available. If your cat eats some of the leaves, having water helps them pass through the digestive tract faster.
With a few basic precautions, cats and spider plants can safely coexist in homes. The potential for toxicity is very low.
Common Questions about Spider Plants and Cats
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about cats ingesting spider plants:
Are spider plants toxic to cats?
No. Spider plants are considered non-toxic and are not poisonous or hazardous to cats according to the ASPCA. But cats eating a lot may get gastrointestinal upset.
How much can a cat eat before being poisoned?
Spider plants are not poisonous. But eating 5-10 whole leaves in a short time frame could cause vomiting. Serious poisoning does not occur.
What happens if a cat eats the babies?
The spider plant babies (plantlets) are not toxic. But cats should avoid eating too many at once as they have similar fiber content as the leaves.
Can cats eat the roots?
It’s best to prevent cats from chewing on the root system. The roots do not contain toxins but are fibrous and could cause obstruction if swallowed.
Should I rush my cat to the vet if ingested?
No. Unless they show signs of a blockage like retching, vomiting, or no appetite after eating a lot of leaves or pieces. Then call your veterinarian.
Are spider plants as deadly as lilies for cats?
No. Unlike true lilies which are very toxic, spider plants are non-toxic and do not cause kidney failure in cats. But keep lilies away from cats.
How long after eating will a cat get sick?
Spider plants should not make cats ill. At most, indigestion signs like vomiting or diarrhea may occur within 12-24 hours of overconsumption.
Can I grow spider plants if I have an indoor cat?
Yes. Spider plants are one of the safest houseplants to grow around cats. Just take some basic precautions and do not let cats use the plant as a toy.
Should You Be Concerned about Cats Eating Spider Plants?
Overall, spider plants are very low toxicity for cats. They are not poisonous or hazardous.
At most, a cat ingesting a large quantity may vomit or have diarrhea until the leaves pass through their system.
Toxic reactions and poisoning do not occur. Kidney damage is not a risk like with true toxic lilies.
While spider plants are very safe, it is still smart to exercise some caution. Try to prevent kittens or curious cats from gorging on the leaves. Place plants out of reach when possible.
But occasional nibbling is not a concern. The fiber in the leaves can even aid feline digestion.
So rest assured that sharing your home with both cats and spider plants is totally safe in most cases. These popular houseplants do not pose a toxicity risk and will not harm your treasured feline companions.
Are Spider Plants Toxic to Cats? – The Verdict
In summary:
- Spider plants are non-toxic and generally safe for cats according to the ASPCA.
- The leaves and shoots may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if eaten in large quantities.
- Monitor cats that play with and ingest a lot of the long leaves, as blockage is possible though uncommon.
- Signs like vomiting or diarrhea after eating many leaves should resolve on their own as the plant matter passes through.
- Take basic precautions, but spider plants are one of the safest houseplants for cat owners to grow.
So feel confident bringing these low-maintenance, cat-friendly spider plants into your home. They help purify the air without posing a toxicity hazard. Both you and your cats can enjoy their benefits safely.