Is Maranta Toxic to Cats?

Introduction

Cats are curious creatures that love to explore their surroundings. They often come across things that catch their fancy, including plants. While some plants are safe for cats to nibble on, others can be toxic and even deadly. As responsible pet owners, we need to be aware of the plants that we keep around our feline friends. In this article, we'll discuss the toxic effects of Maranta on cats.

What is Maranta?

Maranta, also known as the prayer plant, is a popular household plant known for its attractive foliage. It is native to Central and South America and has become a popular indoor plant worldwide. The plant gets its name from the way it folds its leaves at night, resembling the hands of a person in prayer.

Is Maranta Toxic to Cats?

Maranta is listed as toxic to cats by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested. In some cases, cats may experience difficulty breathing and other respiratory problems if they inhale the toxic sap of Maranta.

Signs of Maranta Toxicity in Cats

If your cat has ingested or come into contact with Maranta, there are several signs that you should watch out for. The symptoms of Maranta toxicity in cats include:

• Vomiting
• Oral irritation and swelling
• Difficulty swallowing
• Drooling
• Nasal discharge
• Coughing
• Labored breathing

If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms after coming into contact with Maranta, it's crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. Delay in treatment can lead to severe complications, including renal failure and death in extreme cases.

Preventing Maranta Toxicity in Cats

The best way to prevent Maranta toxicity in cats is by keeping the plant away from your furry friend's reach. If you have Maranta in your home, make sure to keep it in an area where cats cannot access it. You can also use barriers like plant stands and hanging baskets to keep your cat away from the plant.

If you notice your cat showing interest in the plant, it's best to remove the plant from your home altogether. There are plenty of cat-friendly indoor plants that you can replace Maranta with, such as Spider Plant, Boston Fern, and Catnip.

Treating Maranta Toxicity in Cats

If you suspect that your cat has ingested Maranta, it's crucial to take immediate action. Rush your cat to the vet and provide them with as much information about the ingestion as possible. Your vet may induce vomiting to remove any remaining plant material from your cat's system. They may also provide medications and other supportive care to manage your cat's symptoms and prevent complications.

In conclusion, Maranta is toxic to cats and can cause serious health complications if ingested or inhaled. If you have Maranta in your home and also own a cat, it's best to keep the plant out of your feline friend's reach. By being vigilant, you can prevent accidental Maranta ingestion and keep your cat safe and healthy.

Sources:

• https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/prayer-plant
• https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/prayer-plant/
• https://www.petmd.com/cat/emergency/poisoning-toxicity/e_ct_po_prayer_plant_poisoning