Succulents are some of the most fun house plants out there, thanks to their unique shapes and striking appearance. Some are soft and fuzzy, while others are tall and sharp. But it’s important to consider your cat before purchasing a succulent. So here is a list of succulents safe for cats!

 

Many plants are toxic to cats, including a variety of succulents. But there are luckily a good amount of succulents that are safe to have around your curious, playful feline friend. Feel free to place these succulents anywhere. They don’t need to be hidden from your cat because these succulents are perfectly safe!

 

 

Are All Plants Safe for Cats?

No, not all plants are safe for cats. There is, unfortunately, an abundance of plants that are toxic to cats. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, there are over 15,400 plants that are toxic to cats, found in both the garden and as indoor plants. These plants vary in how they affect each cat, with some being more toxic than others. Some of the most toxic for cats include:

 

• Autumn Crocus
• Azalea
• Cyclamen
• Jade Plants
• Kalanchoe
• Lilies
• Oleander
• Daffodils
• Tulips
• Hyacinths
• Pothos
• Chrysanthemum

 

 

 

 

Are Succulents Safe for Cats?

Some succulents are safe for cats, while others are considered toxic. Succulents are a family of slow-growing plants that have adapted to dry, arid environments. They often have thick, fleshy stems and leaves that help them store water. There are over 500 varieties of succulents, all with different colors, shapes, patterns, and other unique features.

 

People love adding succulents to their decor because the plants are not only beautiful and vibrant but very easy to care for. They don’t require a lot of water and are known to be pretty hardy. But before you pick out a succulent that matches your living room’s aesthetic, you should check if it’s toxic to your cat.

 

 

Which Succulents Are Safe for Cats?

There are so many succulents out there that you’re bound to come across a large amount that are safe for cats. While there are certainly some to watch out for, you can rest assured with these succulents that are safe to have around even the nosiest of cats.

 

Echeveria

Found in Southern Mexico and South America, Echeveria features beautifully colored rosettes. Since there are so many types of Echeveria, the plant is known to vary when it comes to the rosettes’ size and shape. The leaves can also be thin or thick, smooth or furry. You’ll also come across multiple colors, meaning you’re bound to find one that’s safe for your kitty and looks gorgeous on your nightstand.

 

A popular variety is the Firecracker Plant, which is fuzzy and has bright red and yellow flowers. Mexican Snowballs are bluish-green with stunning pink flowers. The red tips at the end of each leaf and the plant’s velvety texture set the Ruby Blush apart from the rest.

 

Prickly Pear Cactus

This one-of-a-kind cactus has round, flattened joints known as “pads.” These pads grow into fleshy segments, giving the plant a very distinct appearance. Used in Mexico as a food source due to its edible fruits and sweetness, this plant is safe for humans and cats alike. But they are sharp, so handle with care.

 

Aeoniums

The Aeonium is another succulent with a gorgeous rosette made up of dense, waxy leaves. The rosette comes out of a single stem. Aeonium succulents come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, and they are found throughout the Canary Islands, Morocco, and East Africa.

 

A type of Aeonium called the Kiwi is yellow, green, and red. The center of each leaf is yellow, turning green towards the middle and then sporting red on the edges of the leaf. During the spring, you’ll see bright, yellow flowers. The Black Rose has dark purple foliage. Their stems can grow to more than three feet long.

 

Donkey’s Tail

This succulent has a scientific name Sedum Morganianum but earned its common name due to its unique appearance. This is a very unusual plant that is often found in hanging baskets. That’s because it has long, hanging stems up to three feet long that contain plump and tightly compacted blue-green, round leaves. The resulting look is that of an animal’s furry tail hanging out of the basket!

 

Haworthia

This variety of succulents has become very popular for indoor gardens due to its hardy nature. These plants can grow in low light, and though they are slow growers, Haworthias don’t get too large.

 

One of the most popular varieties is the Zebra Plant. They feature pointed green leaves with textured, white spots. Another popular Haworthia is the Cymbiformis. This term means “boat-shaped,” which perfectly describes its thick green leaves.

 

Ponytail Palm Tree

While this plant looks like a palm tree, it’s actually just a succulent! It has a very bulbous, round trunk that stores a lot of water. On top of the trunk are thin, long leaves that are hair-like in appearance. They spring out in all directions, resembling a ponytail. This plant thrives indoors with little water and bright light.

 

Hens and Chicks

No list of succulents is complete without sempervivums. This is a large genus of succulent plants that contains hardy plants that thrive inside or outside. The nickname comes from their ability to grow clusters of small babies around the mother plant.

 

Christmas Cactus

The Christmas (or Holiday) Cactus is a popular house plant is known for its beautiful, showy flowers, which appear around the holidays. This plant grows quite large and lives for a long time if given the right care (partial shade).

 

Many people propagate the Christmas Cactus to create baby Christmas Cacti for friends and family in time for the holidays. This is also true for other Holiday Cacti; the Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving Cactus plants are safe for cats.

 

 

What Happens If My Cat Ingests A Toxic Succulent?

Succulents that are toxic to cats will cause various symptoms depending on the plant variety and how toxic it is for felines. Here are some common general symptoms that your cat has ingested parts of poisonous succulents:

 

• Irritated skin and swelling
• Twitching
• Drooling
• Sneezing
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Coughing
• Labored breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Appearing unsteady
• Fever

 

Some plants are more toxic to cats than others. These plants will cause more serious side effects. For example, Autumn Crocus can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, liver and kidney failure, and respiratory failure.

 

Azaleas will cause your cat to vomit and have diarrhea after just a few leaves. If left untreated, the problems will only worsen. Lilies will result in severe kidney failure. All of this is to say that it pays to do your research before buying house plants!

 

If you suspect that your cat has eaten a toxic plant, call your veterinarian immediately. The sooner you get your cat to the vet, the better. Even if your cat just appears to be vomiting, it’s important to get them care before the symptoms become more serious.

 

 

 

 

Where Can I Find Succulents That Are Non-Toxic to Cats?

Most plant stores, greenhouses, and markets will have succulents that are safe to have around cats. When looking for non-toxic succulents, go to knowledgeable plant stores with owners who can discuss plant toxicity.

 

It’s always important to ensure that a plant is safe before purchasing. A passionate, knowledgeable gardener will be able to help you find the right choice for your home. Wherever you buy from, make sure the brand knows their stuff!

 

 

Why Choose Planted Pot for Succulents?

Looking for non-toxic succulents? You’re in the right place. Planted Pot even has a handy dandy category dedicated to all of our cat-friendly house plants! Planted Pot is a plant seller with passion. We picture plants as friends who brighten up your home, making it a lively, positive space. We aim to spread knowledge of plants to curious plant lovers everywhere, sharing their magical characteristics all over.

 

Planted Pot ensures that all of our plants are healthy and safe when shipped. We also provide all of the information you need to care for your plants properly, allowing them to thrive. You’ll find a large variety of popular house plants on our site that are ready to make an impact on any decor. You’ll see a “pet-friendly” tag on plants that are safe for your kitty!

 

 

Final Thoughts – Succulents Safe for Cats

Succulents are becoming very popular house plants due to their many vibrant colors and unique shapes. They add an exotic, desert flair to almost any decor, elevating your space with very minimal effort. Most are very low maintenance and are great for beginners.

 

But some succulents are not safe for cats! Many plants, including some varieties of succulents (like Aloe plants), are toxic to cats. They will initially cause your cat to vomit, shake, and breathe heavily. But sometimes, it can lead to more serious problems.

 

Luckily there are a great variety of succulents that are safe for cats. They range in color and shape, providing you with an abundance of fun choices without having to worry about your cat’s health. We all know how tricky it can be to keep a cat out of the plants, but it’s a little easier with Planted Pot!