Is Aloe safe for Cats?
Introduction:
Aloe is used in many different things from sunscreen and burn ointments to food items like yogurt and juices. Some people even have them in their homes for health benefits but are there also health benefits for animals like cats? Cats are curious animals by nature and may come across this plant. Is aloe safe for cats? What happens if your cat eats aloe? Read below for answers to all these questions and more besides.
Is Aloe poisonous to cats?
All types of aloe are toxic to cats and there are over 18 types according to Plant Care Today. Aloe contains toxins like anthracene, glycosides and anthraquinones which will cause mild to moderate symptoms when eaten.
The aloe vera gel inside the leaves of the aloe plant is not toxic. The latex or runny liquid that leaks out when a leaf is cut is what contains all the toxins for cats. This means that even if your cat licks the gel, there is a chance toxins are present along with the gel. Biting and eating the leaves of an aloe plant are certain to cause poisoning of you cat.
What are the symptoms and treatment if your cat ingests aloe?
Diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite and muscle cramps are all can be symptoms of aloe poisoning. If you have aloe plants in the house, these are the symptoms to watch out for.
If your cat does consume aloe, take them immediately to a veterinarian for treatment.
How to protect your Cat from Aloe
The best way to protect your cat from an aloe plant is to not have an aloe plant in your house. If that is not an option or you really like the look the aloe plant here are some ideas to help protect your cat.
Keep the plant out of reach of your cat. Hanging planters can be good for this as long as it is kept away from other furniture or something your cat can jump from like a mantle or counter. Keep your cat entertained as well as you can. This can be challenging but cats who are kept busy will be less likely to chew on things out of boredom. Providing an alternative like cat grass for them to chew on will give them a readily available distraction from the aloe plant.
Conclusion
Yes, aloe is toxic for your cat. The best way to keep your cat safe is to not have those types on plants around. But if pressed, there are ways to keep your cat safe and have aloe as a house plant. Keep it out of reach and keeping your cat distracted from the aloe plant are the best options. Whether the distraction is with toys or a non-toxic alternative house plant like cat grass for the to chew on. That is your choice. If your cat does consume aloe, take them immediately to veterinarian for treatment.