One of the most common types of tough-as-nails houseplants is the Zamioculcas Zamifolia, also known as ZZ Plant. Although it can survive in low light, its parts are considered poisonous to pets and humans.
Zamioculcas Zamifolia is a common houseplant that is ideal for negligent gardeners. It can withstand harsh conditions and is an excellent choice for people who have less-than-perfect plants.
Although it is commonly referred to as the ZZ Plant, this is actually a poisonous plant you can find in most grocery marts and other places. All of its parts are toxic to humans and animals, especially cats.
In this post, we will tackle the various reasons why Zamioculcas Zamifolia is toxic to cats and how they can safely stay in your home. We will also explain the symptoms of these plants and how you can identify them to keep your pet safe.
ZZ House Plant For Cat Owners: Are They Safe For Your Cat?
The ZZ Plant, or the Zamioculas Zamifolia, is a popular house plant. It can tolerate various types of conditions and is remarkably resilient. Although it can be neglected, it can still survive in sunny areas and shady corners. The Zamioculas Zamifolia is an excellent choice for people new to gardening or busy working.
However, when it comes to choosing a houseplant for your cats, one of the most critical factors you should consider is its toxicity.
Although the Zamioculas Zamifolia Plant is commonly used as a houseplant, it can be toxic to cats. Its various parts can be ingested and touched, and this plant is not recommended for anyone with felines. Besides cats, the plant can also be poisonous to other people.
Why Is ZZ Plant So Popular For Indoor Settings?
ZZ Plant is an easy-to-grow African native that can survive drought and is resistant to pests and diseases. It can grow for months with minimal water use. The glossy green leaves of this plant do well in dry air and low-light conditions and this plant is commonly used indoors. Its glossy green leaves are very attractive.
Despite the high levels of toxic chemicals used in producing these products, Dutch nurseries continued to grow and distribute them throughout the 1990s. Due to their carefree temperament, these plants became very popular as indoor plants. They do well in both office and home settings.
The Zamioculas Zamifolia Plant is a part of a poisonous family called the Araceae. Many of the plants that belong to this group are toxic to cats. Some of these include Aglaonema Modestrum, Anthurium, and Monstera.
Does The ZZ Plant Toxic For Your Cat?
Zamioculas Zamifolia is a toxic plant that can be harmful to cats and other animals. It can also be ingested and exposed to the skin. This includes the plant’s various parts, such as its green leaves and its stem.
However, the dangers of this plant are often exaggerated and sensationalized. There have been many rumors about its harmful effects, such as the one that it could cause cancer. Unfortunately, these rumors have been proven false, and scientists are trying to debunk them.
According to Leonard Perry, a University of Vermont medical expert, there are claims about the toxic properties of this plant, but there is no proof to support these claims.
Although the Zamioculas Zamifolia Plant is only mildly toxic to humans and pets, it can still cause cat sickness and inflammation.
How Dangerous Are They For Cats?
The toxicity and damage caused by Zamioculas Zamifolia depend on your cat’s contact with the plant. For instance, the response will differ if they bite, rub, or swallow it. The length of time your pet has had contact with the plant or the amount of food they eat also affects the severity of their response.
Although your cat will likely get slightly irritated by rubbing up against the Zamioculas Zamifolia Plant, it would not suffer as much skin damage as you would if it handled it. Its fur coat will cover its entire body, excluding its ears, nose, and paw pads. But, if your cat gets into a plant without any hair, it could cause them to get irritated, including stinging eyes.
Although eating the ZZ Plant is dangerous for cats, it is not as harmful to humans. Cats are known to be curious and will often bite the leaves, which can be a concern for their owners. If your cat ingests a portion of the plant, it could experience vomiting, diarrhea, stomach discomfort, and nausea.
More Facts
- The stringency of symptoms can vary depending on how much of the plant is eaten. Small amounts may cause a mild stomach ache, while large amounts can cause diarrhea for several hours.
- Getting sick or diarrhea from toxic substances can be a severe concern for cats, especially if they don’t have access to water. Having the proper water supply can help flush out the toxins from the plant, and once they have passed through the animal’s system, they will be back to their usual self.
How Can You Protect Your Child and Your Cat Against The Toxicity Of The ZZ Plant?
When using your Zamioculas Zamifolia Plant in your home or in the office, You should wear gardening gloves and protective equipment to protect your eyes while you are working with the ZZ Plant. You should additionally wash your hands after handling the equipment, and do not put them in the reach of your cat; you might as well not let them go inside your room or office.
But, If your cat has the Zamioculas Zamifolia Plant sap in its mouth or eyes, you should immediately flush it out and call the veterinarian.
Before you start treating Zamioculas Zamifolia Plant, make sure that none of its components are left in your pet’s or child’s mouth. After you have thoroughly cleaned the vegetation, rinse away the sap and give your child or pet ice cream or milk. Also, you can wash your hands after handling your pet or child.
Can You Possibly Keep The ZZ Plant Safely?
These plants are known to have high levels of the same toxic substance that can cause kidney stones. It is called calcium oxide and is the same substance that can be found in human kidney stones. This insoluble form of calcium can cause damage to cells and has a needle-like structure.
Although it can be terrifying to think about having a ZZ Plant in your home, especially if you have a child or a cat pet, it is still essential to keep it away from them. Even if your plant is not toxic to pets or children, you still want to protect it from potential interference.
Follow the standard protocol when it comes to keeping your Zamioculas Zamifolia Plant in a secure area. This will prevent it from being tampered with or even being ignored by kids and cats. Also, you can place it on a shelf or in an area that is off-limits.
Read also: Is String Of Hearts Toxic To Cats? Is It Safe?
Wrapping Up
A small risk that your cat might have a severe allergic reaction if they eat a plant is that their throat might swell up. However, this state is extremely rare and usually only severe enough to require a hyperactive immune system.
Besides, the chances of your cat actually eating the Zamioculas Zamifolia plant are incredibly slim. Just like how brushing against the bristles can cause a burning sensation, biting the leaves can also cause a burning feeling in your cat’s mouth. This could convince them to spit out the plant, and even if they do, they are unlikely to go back to feelings after the first bite.
Although it would be incredibly toxic to cats if they were to eat large amounts of Zamioculas Zamifolia, the real-life effects would be less severe.
