Long ago, cats chose us as their servants. With this massive responsibility comes the need for strict protection of our beloved felines, which means keeping all the harmful, toxic, yucky stuff away from their delicate systems. Unfortunately, this is sometimes almost impossible since they are sneaky, like ninjas, and are experts at getting into trouble. Let’s dig deeper and find out if daisies, sunflowers, or carnations are dangerous around your cat and, if so, what to do if they sneak a toxic nibble or two.
Should You Be Alarmed If Your Cat is Caught Snacking On Daisies, Sunflowers, or Carnations?
Cats can’t resist plants. The soil is fun to dig in and roll around; the stems are crunchy, and the leaves are fun to bat at and tear apart. Plants are a sensory playground for cats. Not all plants are created equal, and some are downright toxic if your cat comes into contact with them. Knowing which plants are safe and which are poisonous is extremely important. The ASPCA website has a plant directory that states if the plant is safe around cats and dogs and, if not, what the consequences could be for not heeding their warning.
Are Daisies Toxic to Cats?
Unfortunately, daisies are very toxic to cats. It’s hard to believe such a whimsical and straightforward flower could be so harmful. True daisies are under the Chrysanthemum genus, which includes mums or different species. It is imperative that you learn the differences between actual daisies and flowers that share their looks, like gerber daisies and chamomile. Unlike daisies, both plants are harmless to cats.
True daisies belong to the Asteraceae family and include Shasta daisies (L. ×superbum), oxeye daisies (Leucanthemum vulgare), and the English, or most commonly seen daisy (Bellis perennis). These flowers all have narrow white petals with a yellow center.
What Makes Daisies So Toxic to Cats?
What makes a daisy so harmful to pets is the pyrethrins and sesquiterpenes it contains. These two otherwise beneficial chemicals help the daisies stay predator-free. Sesquiterpene, a terpene, is a severe irritant of the eyes, nose, and mucus membranes in animals and can cause tearing, burning of the eyes, drooling, a runny, irritated nose, vomiting, diarrhea, and bleeding of the gastrointestinal tract sometimes occurs. If that sounds bad, wait until you hear about pyrethrins.
Pyrethrins are potent insecticides that are often used to combat flies in barns. In the case of your cat, pyrethrin is definitely not something you want them anywhere near. It can cause scary side effects in your cat, though it is rarely fatal. The chemical attacks your cat’s nervous system, leading to wobbling, unsteady gait, and incoordination. Cats with kidney or gastrointestinal diseases are more susceptible to serious side effects.
The severity of the side effects depends on the cat’s overall health, age and size, and how much of the plant they’ve eaten. If a two-pound kitten eats a bunch of daisies, the outcome could be fatal. If there is a chance that your cat has eaten parts of a daisy plant, seek medical attention immediately to be on the safe side. Try rinsing your cat’s mouth, or have them drink water. Be sure to bring a flower with stalk and leaves to show your vet if it has been misidentified.
Are Sunflowers Toxic to Cats?
Your cat will be delighted to know that sunflowers are perfectly fine to chew on, bat at, and otherwise wreak havoc upon. They do not contain any dangerous chemicals that can hurt your pets. If too much is eaten, it can cause an upset stomach with vomiting and diarrhea, but that is the same as when we eat something we shouldn’t. There’s also a chance that if your cat swallows parts of the stalk, it can become lodged in its throat and cause choking. The sees are primarily harmless but could create a blockage if enough is eaten.
Are Carnations Toxic to Cats?
Carnations come in a rainbow of colors that are each toxic to your cat, dog, and horse. The pretty flowers are not as toxic as lilies or daisies but can make for an unpleasant gastrointestinal situation for your pets. Carnations belong to the Dianthus species, which contain triterpenoid saponins in the plant’s sap. If any part of the plant is eaten, irritation can occur anywhere throughout the gastrointestinal tract.
If the sap gets on your cat’s fur, they may have an itchy skin reaction to deal with. If you think your cat has been munching on some carnations, take them to the vet right away. It’s best to be cautious about your furry best friend.
Safe Options for Plant-Loving Cats
Even though your cat may be let down by the news they cannot eat your carnations or daisies, there is still hope. In fact, a great alternative to munching on your plants is cat grass. Cats love cat grass, and a happy cat is what you want. Cat grass is commonly sold in pet stores and is available in oats, wheat, barley, alfalfa, and rye. It is great for a cat’s digestive tract and helps them cough up hairballs. It typically runs around $10 for a small tray. If cared for, the grass can rejuvenate and last a long time. It is also possible to grow your cat grass; just be sure to avoid adding chemical fertilizers because they are deadly to cats.
By purchasing only pet-safe foliage, you can control the plant dangers around your little panther. Plenty of beautiful and unique flowers and plants can be grown in the presence of a cat. Remember, your cat cannot help themselves; they are born with a severe curiosity streak. If you gift your cat some tasty cat grass, they might not care about your yucky plants.
