Is Garden Calla Toxic to Cats?

Calla lilies are popular with gardeners because of their striking, trumpet-shaped flowers and their long-lasting blooms. While these plants are beautiful, many pet owners wonder whether they are safe for their feline friends. Several houseplants and garden plants are toxic to cats, causing symptoms ranging from mild irritation to vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. As a responsible pet owner, it is vital to know which plants to avoid or keep out of your pet's reach.

What Is Garden Calla?

Garden calla, also called Zantedeschia aethiopica, is a flowering plant that is native to South Africa. The plant belongs to the Araceae family and produces white, yellow, or pink, funnel-shaped blooms. Garden calla grows in moist soils, and it is typically found in marshy areas and along riverbanks. In addition to its ornamental use in gardens, calla lilies are popular cut flowers used in bridal bouquets or as a decorative plant in homes and offices.

Is Garden Calla Toxic to Cats?

Garden calla is toxic to cats, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate a cat's mouth, tongue, and digestive tract if ingested. If your cat chews or swallows any part of the calla lily plant, it may experience symptoms such as:

• drooling
• vomiting
• swelling of the tongue, lips, or mouth
• difficulty swallowing
• diarrhea

In severe cases, a cat may experience anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition that requires emergency medical attention. The symptoms of anaphylactic shock include difficulty breathing, sudden weakness, and collapse.

What Should You Do If Your Cat Eats Garden Calla?

If you suspect that your cat has ingested garden calla, it is essential to act quickly. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center operates a 24/7 hotline that pet owners can call for assistance. Be prepared to provide the following information:

• Your cat's breed, age, and weight
• The amount of garden calla your cat ate (if known)
• The time that your cat ate the plant
• Your cat's symptoms (if any)

Based on this information, the veterinarian or poison control specialist may recommend that you induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal, or take your pet to a veterinary clinic for treatment.

What Are the Alternatives to Garden Calla?

If you have a cat in your home, it is best to avoid growing garden calla altogether. Instead, consider planting pet-friendly alternatives that are non-toxic to cats. Some cat-safe plants that you can grow include:

• African violet
• Bamboo
• Spider plant
• Money plant
• Parlor palm

These plants are not only safe for your pets but also visually appealing and easy to care for.

In Conclusion

Garden calla, also known as Zantedeschia aethiopica, is a popular flowering plant that is toxic to cats. If your cat ingests any part of the plant, it may experience mild to severe symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to anaphylactic shock. As a responsible pet owner, it is essential to keep toxic plants out of your pet's reach, and if your cat ingests any toxic plant, seek veterinary advice immediately. Growing cat-friendly plants is an easy and practical way to create a safe and healthy environment for your furry friends.