Is Cyclamen Poisonous to Cats? Understanding the Risks and Safety Tips

Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum), with its vibrant flowers and attractive foliage, is a popular houseplant and holiday decoration. However, pet owners should be cautious when bringing this beautiful plant into their homes, as it is toxic to cats. Ingesting any part of the cyclamen plant can cause serious health issues for felines.

In this guide, we’ll explore why cyclamen is poisonous to cats, symptoms of toxicity, and tips for keeping your furry friends safe.

Why Is Cyclamen Poisonous to Cats?

Cyclamen contains triterpenoid saponins, toxic compounds concentrated in the tubers (roots) of the plant. These substances can irritate the digestive system and, in severe cases, affect the heart and nervous system.

Key Toxic Elements:

• Triterpenoid Saponins: Found throughout the plant but are most concentrated in the tubers.
• Effect: Causes gastrointestinal distress, and in severe cases, can lead to cardiac or nervous system complications.

Allotment and Kitchen Garden Book

Are you starting an allotment or planning on growing your own fruit, vegetables, herbs, and flowers in a kitchen garden? If so we highly recommend the book Allotment Month By Month. This does exactly what it does on the cover to help you with what you should be doing in the allotment and kitchen garden each month. Below you can see the link for Amazon where you can purchase the book directly. This book is extremely popular with all allotment holders as you will read in the reviews:-

You can check out all the allotment and kitchen garden books we recommend here.

Symptoms of Cyclamen Poisoning in Cats

If a cat chews on or ingests parts of a cyclamen plant, it may exhibit the following symptoms:

Mild Symptoms:

1. Drooling
2. Vomiting
3. Diarrhea

Severe Symptoms (from ingesting large amounts):

1. Abnormal heart rhythms
2. Tremors or seizures
3. Lethargy or weakness
4. Collapse or difficulty breathing

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Cyclamen

If you suspect your cat has ingested cyclamen, act quickly:

1. Remove the Plant

• Take the cyclamen plant out of your cat’s reach to prevent further ingestion.

2. Observe Symptoms

• Monitor your cat for signs of distress, such as vomiting, drooling, or lethargy.

3. Contact a Veterinarian

• Call your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately. Provide details about how much and which part of the plant your cat ingested.

4. Do Not Induce Vomiting

• Do not attempt to make your cat vomit unless instructed by a veterinarian, as this could worsen the situation.

5. Follow Veterinary Instructions

• Your vet may recommend bringing your cat in for evaluation and treatment, which may include activated charcoal, IV fluids, or supportive care.

How to Keep Cats Safe Around Cyclamen

1. Keep Cyclamen Out of Reach

• Place cyclamen plants in areas inaccessible to cats, such as high shelves or closed rooms.

2. Opt for Cat-Friendly Plants

• Replace cyclamen with non-toxic alternatives like spider plants, parlor palms, or Christmas cactus.

3. Use Deterrents

• Apply pet-safe deterrent sprays around plants to discourage chewing.

4. Provide Cat-Safe Alternatives

• Offer cat grass or catnip to satisfy your cat’s curiosity and reduce the likelihood of it nibbling on toxic plants.

5. Educate Visitors

• Inform guests or family members about the risks of bringing cyclamen into a home with cats.

Non-Toxic Alternatives to Cyclamen

If you love having plants around but want to ensure your cat’s safety, consider these non-toxic options:

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
   • Safe for cats and easy to care for.
2. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
   • A pet-friendly decorative plant.
3. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
   • Low-maintenance and non-toxic.
4. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)
   • A festive, cat-safe alternative.
5. Calathea
   • Beautiful foliage and safe for pets.

FAQs About Cyclamen and Cats

1. Is cyclamen toxic to cats?

Yes, cyclamen is toxic to cats due to triterpenoid saponins, especially in the tubers.

2. What happens if a cat eats cyclamen?

Cyclamen ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in severe cases, tremors, heart issues, or seizures.

3. Which part of the cyclamen is most toxic?

The tubers (roots) contain the highest concentration of toxic compounds, but all parts of the plant are harmful.

4. Can cyclamen poisoning be fatal?

Yes, ingesting large amounts of cyclamen, particularly the tubers, can be fatal if untreated.

5. Are there any safe flowering plants for cats?

Yes, pet-safe flowering plants include African violets, Christmas cactus, and orchids.

6. How do I prevent my cat from eating cyclamen?

Place the plant out of reach, use deterrents, and offer safe alternatives like cat grass.

7. What should I do if my cat shows symptoms of cyclamen poisoning?

Contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately for advice.

8. Is cyclamen toxic to dogs as well?

Yes, cyclamen is toxic to dogs and can cause similar symptoms.

9. Can I still keep cyclamen in a home with cats?

Only if the plant is kept in a completely cat-proof location, like a sealed room or enclosed terrarium.

10. Are there any pet-safe plants with flowers similar to cyclamen?

Consider Christmas cactus or African violets for a similar aesthetic without the toxicity risk.

Conclusion

While cyclamen is a beautiful and popular plant, its toxicity poses a serious risk to cats. If you’re a pet owner, it’s best to avoid keeping cyclamen in your home or ensure it is completely out of your cat’s reach. By opting for pet-friendly alternatives and being proactive about your cat’s safety, you can enjoy greenery and blooms without worry.

Gardening With Ben Podcasts

If you love podcasts and are passionate about gardening, why not tune in to Gardening with Ben’s Allotment Podcasts? Packed with tips, inspiration, and plenty of down-to-earth advice, Ben’s podcasts are perfect for anyone looking to get the most out of their garden or allotment.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Gardening with Ben covers a wide range of topics to keep you informed and motivated. From seasonal planting guides and pest control tips to creating a wildlife-friendly space, there’s something for everyone. Each episode is filled with Ben’s friendly, relatable charm, making it feel like you’re chatting with a gardening buddy.

Don’t miss out on the latest episode below, where Ben shares his insights on what to plant this month, how to prepare your soil, and creative ways to make the most of the colder seasons. It’s the perfect companion for your next cup of tea or a relaxing moment in your gardening shed.

You can also listen to Gardening with Ben’s podcasts on your favorite platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. Prefer hands-free? Simply ask Alexa, “Play Gardening with Ben,” and you’ll be ready to dig into the latest episode.

So, if you’re looking for gardening inspiration, practical advice, or just a bit of friendly encouragement to get your hands dirty, tune in to Gardening with Ben’s Allotment Podcasts. It’s your perfect gardening companion, wherever you are! 🌱🎧