Christmas cactuses are one of the few plants that bloom in the winter and add a splash of color to your home. But are they safe for pets? Many of the flowers and plants we keep in our gardens and homes are pretty to look at but can kill our pets if they eat them.
For instance, lilies can hurt a cat’s kidneys if it eats them, and Japanese yew is very dangerous for all pets. Learning which plants are unsafe to have in your home is important for protecting your pet’s health.
Spring cactus refers to two popular flowering houseplants – Easter cactus and Christmas cactus. Both bloom in springtime, hence the descriptive name. With their colorful flowers and easy care needs, these cacti make great additions to homes with cats. But is spring cactus toxic to cats if nibbled or ingested? Let’s explore the facts.
Is Easter or Christmas Cactus Poisonous to Cats?
The good news is that both Easter cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri) and Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) are considered non-toxic for cats according to the ASPCA.
No harmful compounds have been identified within these plants that could endanger cats Multiple scientific studies and veterinary experts confirm their safety around felines
So while ingestion may cause minor stomach upset, spring cactus generally won’t pose any serious toxicity risks for curious cats who take a bite However, it’s still smart to keep them out of reach of pets and children to prevent stomach irritation and choking hazards from the spiny leaves.
Overall though, both Easter cactus and Christmas cactus get the green light when it comes to safety for cat owners wanting to add these ornamental plants to their homes.
Tips for Safely Keeping Cats Away from Spring Cactus
While not toxic, you still don’t want your cat nibbling on the pointy leaves and spines of prickly cacti. Here are some tips to keep your spring cactus safe from feline interference:
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Place out of reach on high shelves or wall-mounted hangers
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Use a decorative protective barrier like a wire cover or terrarium case.
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Keep in a spare room or cat-free zone like an office or sunroom.
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Use distraction toys or catnip to redirect attention elsewhere.
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Train your cat not to mess with houseplants using deterrents.
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Consider fake spring cactus if your cat is determined to interact.
With some creative solutions, you can absolutely keep spring cactus in a cat-friendly home safely out of paws’ reach.
What If My Cat Ingests Spring Cactus?
In the event your cat manages to take a nibble from your Easter or Christmas cactus, take note of any symptoms but don’t panic. Here’s what to do:
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Observe your cat closely over the next 24 hours for any signs of irritation or distress.
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Contact your veterinarian if you notice vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, appetite loss or lethargy.
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Bring a sample of the plant for identification and discuss any concerning symptoms.
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Induce vomiting only if instructed by your vet. Never give any treatment without guidance.
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Monitor food and water intake along with litter box usage for next few days.
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Limit access to the cactus until your cat learns to leave it alone.
While no serious toxicity is expected, it’s smart to touch base with your vet anytime your cat ingests a new substance like houseplants. Prompt action is wise.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Spring Cactus
To keep your Easter or Christmas cactus thriving in optimal health as a cat-safe houseplant, provide these key care needs:
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Sunlight: Bright indirect light is ideal. Avoid hot direct sun which can scorch leaves.
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Temperature: Average room temperature between 65-75°F is preferred. Keep away from cold drafts.
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Water: Allow soil to dry out between waterings, then soak thoroughly. Reduce in winter.
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Soil: Use a well-draining cactus potting soil. Repot every 2-3 years as needed.
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Fertilizer: Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.
By mimicking the tropical origins of spring cactus, you can keep your plants healthy and flowering for years of enjoyment!
How to Grow Spring Cactus Successfully Indoors
Follow these simple tips for growing vibrant spring cactus in your home:
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Select a container with drainage holes and use cactus potting mix. Terra cotta pots work well.
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Place in a bright location out of direct sun. An east or west window is ideal.
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Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings, then soak thoroughly until it drains from the holes.
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Remove faded flowers to encourage more blooms.
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Wipe leaves periodically with a damp cloth to keep dust-free.
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Rotate the pot occasionally for even growth.
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Repot every 2-3 years in the spring when overcrowded. Go up just 1 pot size.
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Fertilize monthly from March-September. Stop feeding in fall and winter.
The right care will keep your spring cactus thriving for years to come!
Troubleshooting Common Spring Cactus Problems
If your plant underperforms, look for these potential issues:
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Drooping leaves: Underwatering – allow soil to dry before soaking thoroughly.
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Brown spots: Sunburn – move to brighter indirect light, no hot sun.
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Few blooms: Too much nitrogen fertilizer or insufficient light.
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Leggy growth: Insufficient light – supplement with grow lights if needed.
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Rotting stems: Overwatering – allow soil to dry out more between waterings.
With a few adjustments, you can get a struggling spring cactus back on track!
Decorating with Spring Cactus in Cat Friendly Homes
The charming blooms and easy care of Easter and Christmas cactus make them perfect for decorating cat friendly living spaces:
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Place potted spring cactus atop bookshelves, cabinets and other high surfaces safely out of kitty’s reach.
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Hang spring cactus planters using macrame or wire hanging systems on walls or ceilings.
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Add smaller 4-6 inch potted cacti to decorative stands on coffee tables, desks, counters or windowsills. Use barrier covers if needed.
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Arrange several matching pots on entryway consoles, sideboard buffets, kitchen islands or bathroom vanities.
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Group with other cat-safe plants like spider plants, pilea, peperomia and parlor palms for eclectic displays.
Let your creativity run free when brainstorming ways to safely incorporate spring cactus into rooms your curious cat inhabits!
Companion Plants for Eye-Catching Cat-Safe Planters
For stunning planter combinations safe for cats but toxic for boredom, try pairing spring cactus with these complementary plants:
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Succulents like echeveria, aloe vera and haworthia for contrasting textures and colors
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Tropicals such as prayer plants, nerve plants and polka dot begonias
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Trailing pothos, philodendron orEnglish ivy spilling over container edges
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Upright dracaena, parlor palms or bamboo for height and structure
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Flowering plants like African violets or moth orchids
Mix and match shapes, sizes and varieties for endless inspiration to safely embellish your cat’s domain.
5 Tips for Getting Spring Cactus to Bloom
For fabulous flowers from your Easter or Christmas cactus, focus on:
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Sunlight – Provide maximum bright, indirect light to initiate blooms.
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Cooler Temperatures – Nighttime temps around 55-60°F trigger bud formation.
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Photoperiod – Shortening daylight hours in fall signal flowering time.
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Maturity – Mature plants over 3 years old bloom most profusely.
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Fertilizer – Discontinue fertilizer in late summer to set buds. Resume after blooming concludes.
Following these simple guidelines will fill your home with fabulous spring cactus blooms year after year for you and your cat to enjoy!
Fun Facts About Easter Cactus and Christmas Cactus
Beyond being cat-safe, spring cactus offer some cool facts:
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Native to South American rainforests, not the desert.
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Given as gifts in Europe since the 1800s.
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Botanically classified as epiphytes, growing on trees versus soil.
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Individual flowers only last 1-2 days, but each plant can have 100+ blooms.
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Mature specimens can grow up to 3 feet wide.
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Propagate new plants easily from cuttings.
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Given their holiday bloom seasons, received their common names in the early 1900s.
Part history, part botany, part decoration, spring cactus offer versatility perfect for cat parents!
FAQs About Spring Cactus Safety for Cats
Curiosity awaits you, feline friend! Here are answers to common questions about spring cactus and cats:
Is Easter cactus toxic to cats?
No, Easter cactus is considered non-toxic and safe for cats. As with any plant, avoid ingestion.
Is Christmas cactus poisonous to cats?
No, Christmas cactus is also non-toxic to cats according to veterinary experts and scientific studies.
Should I be concerned if my cat ate Christmas cactus?
Contact your vet with any safety concerns, but toxicity is very unlikely. Minor irritation may occur.
Are the flowers or berries also safe on spring cactus?
Yes, all parts of Easter and Christmas cactus are considered non-toxic for feline companions.
Can cats eat the cactus pads safely or will that hurt them?
It’s best not to let cats nibble any part to prevent choking hazards or irritation from spines.
Let your cat curiously explore this beginner’s guide to safely cultivating spring cactus at home. The takeaway? These flowering plants promise prickle-free enjoyment for pets and plant-parents alike!
What Holiday Plants Are Poisonous to Cats?
The following are holiday plants that are poisonous if ingested by your cat:
The Easter lily, the tiger lily, the Japanese show lily, and some daylilies are just a few of the lily species that are very dangerous to cats. If your cat eats a few bites of a lily leaf, it can fail its kidneys quickly and die. Seek emergency veterinary care as soon as possible. There are less toxic varieties such as peace lily, calla lily, or Peruvian lily. If ingested, these may cause irritation to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract rather than kidney failure and death.
Many varieties of holly berries are toxic if ingested by a cat. They contain saponins, which may cause excessive drooling, vomiting, abdominal pain, head shaking, or diarrhea. Even though they aren’t very dangerous, if your cat eats any part of the holly plant, you should call your vet to find out if treatment is needed.
The mistletoe makes you think of stolen kisses, but if a cat eats it, it will make their heart hurt more. Mistletoe has chemicals in it called phoratoxins and lectins that can lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate. Other common signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and weakness. If your pet ingests any mistletoe, contact your veterinarian right away to determine the next steps in care.
Many people look forward to the Christmas tree every year, but cats can get sick from it and could be in danger. If you eat the sap from certain trees, like fir trees, the oil in them can irritate your mouth and stomach. Also, tinsel and ribbons are tempting for cats and, if ingested, can lead to intestinal obstruction and tangling. If your cat starts to throw up, you should call your vet right away because they may have eaten something that needs to be surgically removed.
The bulbs of the amaryllis plant have the most phenanthridine alkaloid, a poison that can be found in all parts of the plant. This toxin causes changes in blood pressure, tremors, seizures, and vomiting. If your cat eats any part of the amaryllis plant, you should call your vet right away to find out what to do next.
Similar to the amaryllis, all parts of the Christmas rose are toxic. The Christmas rose is not actually a rose species and contains cardiotoxins. The most common signs of ingestion include drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. If your cat eats any part of the Christmas rose, you should talk to your vet about what to do next.
Rumors of poinsettia toxicity can be exaggerated. Although these plants are toxic to pets, they usually result in discomfort and rarely in serious symptoms. The plant is irritating to the lining of the mouth and the gastrointestinal tract. The most common clinical signs are oral discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. Hospitalization is not usually necessary, but your cat may need treatment for gastrointestinal irritation.
What To Do if Your Cat Eats a Christmas Cactus?
If you see your cat eating a Christmas cactus, call your vet right away to find out if the amount they ate could be harmful.
It is unlikely that eating a Christmas cactus will make you sick, but if your cat eats a big piece of the fibrous, hard-to-digest part of the plant, it could cause an intestinal blockage.
Closely monitor your cat’s food intake to make sure they are eating and having regular bowel movements. Having other cats in the house? Put the cat in a separate room with its own food, water, and litter box.
Call your vet right away if your cat is vomiting, having diarrhea, having irregular bowel movements, losing its appetite, or being very tired.