The story started when our family friend bought a houseplant called Snake plant as a gift for our house when I was a kid and did not say anything about snake plant care. I liked it very much, but one day, I saw that my cat chewed a bit of it and was sick. It’s like I’m the only one interested in those Snake-like leaves. I took my cat to the vet as soon as possible, and fortunately, the problem was resolved. Now, I want to explain this issue.
How toxic are snake plants to humans and pets?
Before anything else, you need to know that Snake plants, I mean all parts of the snake plant and also all types of snake plants, both outdoors and indoors, are poisonous to your pets, specially cats and dogs, but not typically deadly. In fact, they have saponins which act as a defense mechanism for the Snake plants and cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if eaten. Although the effect of these steroidal compounds can be different depending on the person’s health (whether human, pet, or bird) and how much it is used, they are usually mild and short-term and if the signs of disorders become severe, you should see a doctor or veterinarian.
cozy atmosphere for snake plant and pets at home
First of all, if you have a pet at home, you should ask around for houseplants. Now, if it is toxic like snake plants, I will help you what to do so that no problem will happen to you and your pets:
The snake plant must be out of the reach of animals and children, which is forbidden for them. Usually put it somewhere high and use hanging planters, decorative cages or terrarium. Teach the dog or cat not to come close to the snake plant step by step. I used the clicker method.
Moreover, there are some pet deterrent sprays, such as a mixture of water and citrus fruits, which cats and dogs do not like. So, if you spray them on the Snake plant, you will automatically drive them away.
Finally, always check the behavior of your pet around the Snake plant, if they like it, make sure to create obstacles.
Signs of Snake Plant Poisoning
It is necessary to know the effects of Snake plant poison on pets such as cats, dogs, birds, and also humans because it will help you to make up your mind in challenging situations.
Toxicity to Cats
If you see that your cat feels unwilling and is unable to do anything, hasn’t desire to eat food, is drooling, paws at its mouth, or has diarrhea and vomiting, and in very rare cases, it has hemolysis problems, it must have eaten Snake plant leaves. Take care of it, and if it doesn’t get better, go to the vet.
Toxicity to Dogs
Dogs are almost like cats. They usually feel a lack of energy and do not want to eat. They begin to drool and have diarrhea, vomiting, and belly pains.
Toxicity to Humans
If you accidentally touch the sap of the Snake plant or your little son eats its leaves, don’t worry, Snake plant can cause painful reactions such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, itching, redness of the skin and even swelling and difficulty breathing, which are usually mild and get better soon.
Toxicity to Birds
Snake Plants are more dangerous for birds because they are small in size and usually sit on the long leaves of snake plants when they are bored. It seems they think of snake plants as amazing toys. The poison of Snake plant, when it is ingested can cause problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, distress, weakness, and even breathing problems.
Follow the safety rules
Always wear gloves when you trim a snake plant or repot snake plant, wash your hands well after work and, keep it out of the reach of children and pets, tell your family members that the snake plant is poisonous. I get help from labeling the name of the plant and its dangers as a reminder.
Immediate Solution
for pets
Early diagnosis of the disease is very important. Keep calm and remove the remains of the snake plant from its mouth and wash its mouth. If the symptoms do not come down, go to the vet. Remember, some people mistakenly give milk to their dogs or cats in these situations, and you should never do this.
For humans
It is better to wash your skin well with soap and water and use over-the-counter antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream to get rid of itching. In case of being eaten, you should drink as much water as you can to get rid of the poison and then rest, but If symptoms are severe, such as difficulty breathing or intense gastrointestinal distress (it’s really rare), go to the emergency room immediately.
Safe Alternatives to Snake Plants
Many people believe that if they choose Pet-Safe Plants, in addition to the beauty and cleaning of the air in their home, they will have peace of mind and not worry about their pet’s health. If you agree with this opinion, I must say that you should avoid buying Snake plants, ZZ plants, Aloe Vera, Philodendron, Pothos (Devil’s Ivy), Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane), and Sago Palm. But before you decide, maybe you should know about the benefits of Snake Plant.
Now here I introduce some beautiful safe plants that make your house unique:
•Spider Plant with arching leaves and small white flowers
• Boston Fern Ideal for shade rooms
•Areca Palm or the butterfly palm with a tropical feel
• Baby’s Tears as a decorative hanging plant
• Calathea with vibrate leaves
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Do you have any questions or experiences to share that could help me and other readers? Please comment below. Your insights are invaluable.
