Cats are extra sneaky around plants they know they aren’t allowed to mess with. They are similar to children in this respect since no amount of saying “no” seems to get through to them. Here at PetMojo, we are committed to keeping you and your cat happy and safe. After this article, we are pleased to provide some fantastic alternatives to Mr. Fuzzypants harvesting your houseplants.
Are Orchids Dangerous to Have Around Your Cat?
Let’s talk about orchids. They are some of the most beautiful and fragrant flowers in the world. It’s said that over 25,000 species of orchid exist under the Orchidaceae family, and while some species, like Phalaenopsis, are non-toxic to cats and dogs, some are likely not. Some orchids are mildly toxic to humans, like lady slipper orchids. The ASPCA website does not list lady slippers as toxic to cats or dogs. Lady Slippers are known to cause skin discomfort in humans if handled. It’s entirely possible that the orchid will also cause irritation in your cat’s mouth if eaten. Pets and humans can eat other types of orchids in moderation. There’s even a host of medicinal properties in orchid consumption.
What are the Most Common Household Orchids?
Unless you are a horticulturist, you probably had no idea so many types of orchids were out there. Some of the most popular orchids are the Moon, Dancing Lady, Crimson Cattleya, Boat, Lady Slipper, and Dendrobium orchids. Let’s learn more about the most sought-after orchids in the world.
Moon Orchid (Phalaenopsis amabilis)
Moon orchids are the most commonly seen at plant shops. They have broad petals that can span three inches across and symmetrical fat leaves opposite one another. Their flowers can last 2 – 6 months before finally falling off. This orchid draws moisture from the air and, in nature, can be found growing on trees in Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Philippines. Moon orchids are found in a wide array of colors.
Crimson Cattleya Orchids (Cattleya labiata)
This vibrant orchid grows in dry areas in Brazil. The lip of the petal gives it the name labiata, which translates into “lipped.” The Crimson Cattleya Orchid comes in a wide range of colors depending on where it was grown. It is commonly grown outside in gardens and also in greenhouses.
Fiery Reed Orchid (Epidendrum ibaguense)
This beautiful South American Fiery Reed Orchid is much smaller in size than the moon orchid. Its colors tend to include reds, oranges, and yellows. As a lithophytic orchid, it can be found growing on the faces of rocks and boulders. It was first discovered in Colombia in the city of Ibagué. The lovely orchid can reach two feet tall when mature.
Dancing Lady Orchid (Oncidium sp.)
The whimsical Dancing Lady Orchid is one of the most unique flowers in the world. When looking at its asymmetrical blooms, you can make out a dancing woman with arms spread, a huge billowing ballroom skirt, and a fancy headdress of sorts. The flower almost looks as if it could be a tiny doll and frequently includes the colors brown, yellow, and orange. These are easy and fun flowers to grow, perfect for beginners.
What Hidden Dangers Should You Look Out For?
Watch out for invisible toxins on the plant, such as pesticides, and the potential for toxic chemical fertilizer mixed into the potting soil. Typical chemical fertilizer is composed of potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus. If your cat has consumed some fertilizer, get it to the vet immediately to avoid repercussions. One way to avoid the mishap is to repot the orchid in natural potting soil without adding chemical fertilizers.
For this reason, orchids should be kept out of your cat’s reach. That’s not to mention that orchids are costly, and most people wouldn’t be okay with their cat eating their $50 orchid. One of the best places to put an orchid that will allow it to maintain enough humidity and also avoid your cat is in the bathroom. If you have a small window in your shower, set it on the sill.
Houseplants for Cats
If your cat needs a small plant of its own, consider buying it some pet grass or catnip from pet stores. It is inexpensive at around $10 apiece. You can also grow your own cat grass if you have a green thumb. The grass is free of chemicals and harmful fertilizers, so you won’t need to worry about it somehow poisoning your cat. The grass attracts cats to nibble as much as they like. It is very fine and easily digestible, which makes it perfect for most cats itching to get into your plants or sneak outside to eat grass.
Cats are funny little creatures filled with bad ideas and tons of energy. It is your job as a human to care for them and make sure their bad ideas don’t become safety issues. Plants and cats typically do not mix in most households, but it can be done. Keep your plants out of reach; stick to 100% cat-safe, non-toxic plants that will not break the bank, and when possible, opt for hanging baskets. If your cat decides to snack on your plants, you probably don’t want it to happen to the room with $500 worth of orchids inside. If your cat insists on sitting by the plants, move its cat grass over to that area to enjoy. Watch out if you have any canine housemates because dogs love to snack on grass, too!
