Last Updated on June 4, 2022 by Guillermina
Are money trees toxic to cats? Find out all the answers to questions that might interest you.
Although money doesn’t grow on Pachira aquatica, it is one of the most popular houseplants around the world. The reason is very simple and twofold, traditionally this plant brings good fortune to a home, and in addition, it is very easy to maintain. Who wouldn’t love it?
However, almost all furry pet owners have at least once encountered the enigma “are money trees toxic to cats”. Well, let us help you.
The Money Tree Plant, Description & Fun Facts
The money tree plant is nothing less than a tropical beauty. When growing in the wild, it can reach a height of as much as 60 feet. According to the US Department of Agriculture, the Money plant belongs to the group of Hardy plants, hardiness zones 10 to 12.
When grown as indoor plants, this plant tends to remain much smaller. When grown as houseplants, this plant tends to stay much smaller compared to home garden cultivation where they have the ability to grow as large, bushy shrubs with a maximum height of 30 feet.
Why Do Your Furry Pets Eat Money Trees?
For most pets, including cats, plant-eating is a side effect of the play. There is no particular reason for this because cats bite and paw at leaves for the same reason they attack feathery cat toys. They are most likely doing it because they are bored.
In addition, some cats do actually snack on plants. There is no scientific explanation for why cats chew on grass or other plants occasionally. Namely, this type of behavior is primarily instinctive and might have evolved to keep parasites down in your kitty’s wild ancestors. Furthermore, biting houseplants is more common in younger cats and cats that do not have access to grasses to chew on.
Now, it’s time to offer you the answer to the question “are money trees toxic to cats”. Well, let’s get to the point.
Question Of The Day: Are Money Trees Toxic To Cats?
If your cat decides to climb up and take a nibble of any part of the Money tree plant, its health will not be seriously compromised. So, there is no room for panic.
This doesn’t mean that you should allow your pet to enjoy eating this plant indefinitely because even non-toxic plants can cause an upset stomach. To avoid this, it would be best to place your money tree in an inaccessible location.
Therewithal, it’s more difficult to prevent an outdoor cat from chewing on this plant. Spraying the plant with a bitter-tasting spray to discourage biting has proven to be the best method of prevention.
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Negative Aspects Resulting From the Consumption Of This Plant
Now that you know the final answer to the question “are money trees toxic to cats”, we can move on to the topic. Although money trees are not toxic to cats, it would be advisable to keep them away from this habit.
Nothing bad should happen to your furry pet, but we cannot guarantee the same for your plant, namely, frequent biting or eating can damage or kill the plant. In addition, do not be too lenient with this habit of cats as it can be harmed by pesticides, fertilizers, and other additives found in and around houseplants. Pay special attention to the soil in which your plant is planted, as well as to fallen leaves.
Lastly, be careful and if you think your cat has been poisoned, contact a veterinarian immediately!
How to Keep Your Furry Pets Away From Money Trees?
If your pet has a habit of digging and nibbling your houseplants, there are a few very simple ways to cat-proof your potted plants.
The easiest way is to remove your Money tree plant out of the reach of your cat. However, this is not always possible as it is usually a fairly large plant.
Alternatively, you can regularly spray some natural substances that repel cats. Our favorites are mustard powder, pepper, and citrus oils. In addition, you can prepare a pot of cat grass; it will distract your furry pet from this plant because it is much tastier and more attractive to nibble.
To End – Are Money Trees Toxic To Cats?
Fortunately, this beautiful tropical plant is not toxic to your furry pet! There are many reasons why cats adore this plant, and the most common among them is certainly boredom.
One thing to keep in mind is, whether your cat is trying to play with your plant or ingest it, you don’t have to worry because this behavior is completely natural, moreover, instinctive.
That would be it, now know the exact answer to the question “are money trees toxic to cats”. We hope you found this article useful. If you have any questions, let us know in the section below.
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FAQs
Is A Money Tree Pet Friendly?
The money tree plant is completely pet friendly. Moreover, it has so many benefits that it is recommended for people with allergies and asthma.
Are Money Tree Leaves Poisonous?
Fortunately for all pet owners, your Money Tree plant has no toxic leaves. Accordingly, feel free to keep it indoors, it should not harm your pets.
Are Money Trees Good House Plants?
The money tree plant is a perfectly good houseplant. It is quite attractive and gives a dose of tropical flair in every space in which it is located. In addition to being attractive in appearance, it is easy to maintain.
All you need to provide it with is a place with lots of bright, indirect light, such as a south- or west-facing window, fertile soil and watering. That would be it, with a little love and effort your plant will thrive.
What Happens If My Cat Eats My Money Tree?
If you realize that your cat has eaten a piece of this plant, you don’t need to panic. Nothing bad will happen. It can cause stomach upsets, but death certainly won’t.
