Is Orchid Plant Really Safe For Cats?

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JAKARTA - It is common that cats will bite objects if they feel curious about the object. All objects, including ornamental plants in the house. In fact, the Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) states that plants are one of the most common toxins for pets.

The good news is, for orchid plant lovers and also have cats, this ornamental plant has reportedly a species most of which is not toxic to cats. However, that doesn't mean your cat can freely eat orchids and spoil its beauty.

For that, you still need to prevent cats from getting too close to orchids, let alone eating them.

The ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) reported by The Spruce, Tuesday, September 5, lists the most popular orchid genus, the Phalaenopsis as a genus that is not toxic to dogs and cats. Even so, you still need to keep an eye on your favorite cat from Orchid plants. Because safety is not necessarily not a problem. It should be noted that Cellop orchids (Cypripedium spp.) are known to cause light skin irritation in humans, so the same applies to cats.

Even if orchids are a plant that is safe for cats, keep the cat out of reach. In addition to damaging the beauty of orchids, accidentally eating parts of this plant can trigger stomach pain and vomiting in cats.

Another risk is the possibility of herbisides or pesticides on plants. You won't know for sure what orchid sellers use on plants before you buy them. And, if a cat likes pot soil, it could be that the soil contains toxic chemical fertilizer. If in doubt, move orchids to a fresh pot medium using organic fertilizer that is safe for pets.

Eating plants is common in home cats. Previously, experts suspected this often happens when cats felt unwell and wanted to vomit. However, research shows that this is usually not triggered by stomach disorders, but rather an instinct behavior. Some cats may be attracted to the taste, aroma, or petals of orchids and other cats may bite them for fun, or to relieve boredom, or stress.

If you don't want cats to eat orchids or other ornamental plants, then you need to meet the underlying needs. Here are some ideas to protect plants from agile cats.

Invest in toys that stimulate to help when cats eat plants because they are bored.

Cats are reliable acrobatic players, so putting orchids on high shelves may not be enough and it could be cats will drop fragile plants from high places. Consider where orchids can get the light they need, but cats can't reach them.

Direct a cat that likes plants to more appropriate vegetation every time it shows interest in grazing on orchid petals.

Cats may chew the plants as a way to reduce stress. If you feel the cat is anxious, consider calling professional pet behavior experts. They can help you determine stress triggers and how to help cats to feel more comfortable.