If you have a cat, you might want to think twice before adding a Geranium or Pelargonium plant to your home. These plants are toxic to cats and can cause a variety of health problems if ingested, including vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your cat has eaten either of these plants, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
There’s some debate over whether or not geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) are toxic to cats, but it’s generally agreed that they’re only mildly poisonous. Symptoms of toxicity include drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. If your cat ingests any part of a geranium, call your veterinarian right away.
My Cat Ate Geranium
If you have a cat, you may be wondering if it’s safe to let them eat geraniums. The good news is that geraniums are not poisonous to cats. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before letting your cat indulge in this plant.
For starters, Geraniums can cause stomach upset in cats. If your cat eats a lot of the leaves or flowers, they may vomit or have diarrhea. In severe cases, they may even experience difficulty breathing.
Additionally, the sap from geraniums can be irritating to a cat’s skin and eyes. If your cat comes into contact with the sap, they may experience redness and swelling. If the irritation is severe, they may need medical attention.
So while geraniums are not poisonous to cats, it’s important to use caution if you plan on letting them eat or play with this plant.
Credit: www.petpoisonhelpline.com
Is Geranium Cat Friendly?
Yes, geraniums are cat friendly! While the plant isn’t poisonous, the sap can be an irritant to your cat’s skin. If your kitty nibbles on a leaf or two, they may experience some drooling and vomiting.
If you have a particularly curious or mischievous cat, it’s best to keep the plant out of reach.
Is the Geranium Smell Toxic to Cats?
No, the geranium smell is not toxic to cats. In fact, many people use essential oils from the geranium plant to help soothe their kitty’s anxiety or stress. However, as with any essential oil, it’s important to use a high-quality product and to diluted properly before using it on your cat.
You should also never apply essential oils directly to your cat’s fur or skin. If you’re looking for a way to help your feline friend relax, consider diffusing some lavender or chamomile oil instead.
Is a Pelargonium the Same As a Geranium?
Pelargoniums and geraniums are often confused because they look very similar. Both plants are in the Geraniaceae family and have showy flowers that come in a variety of colors.
So, what is the difference between a pelargonium and a geranium?
Pelargoniums are native to South Africa while geraniums originate from Europe and Asia. Pelargoniums are also more tolerant to heat and drought than geraniums. When it comes to care, both plants need full sun and well-drained soil.
However, pelargoniums can be propagated by stem cuttings while geraniums must be grown from seed.
If you’re not sure which plant you have, take a look at the leaves. Geranium leaves are usually green or dark red while pelargonium leaves are usually variegated with different colors like pink, yellow, or white.
So, now you know the difference between these two popular plants!
Are Pelargonium Flowers Poisonous?
Pelargonium flowers are not poisonous. However, they can cause skin irritation in some people. If you experience any irritation, wash the area with soap and water.
Are Geraniums Poisonous To Dogs And Cats
Conclusion
Many people are unsure if geranium or pelargonium is toxic to cats. The truth is, both of these plants can be harmful to your feline friend. Geraniums contain saponins, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested.
Pelargoniums contain tannins, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset in cats. If you suspect your cat has eaten either of these plants, it is important to contact your veterinarian right away.
