Yes, kalanchoe is toxic to cats
Kalanchoe is a common flowering succulent that contains bufadienolides, a type of cardiac glycoside. Most pets only vomit, but large amounts can affect the heart.
Kalanchoe and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Toxic |
| Scientific name | Kalanchoe spp. |
| Also called | mother-in-law plant, devil's backbone, chandelier plant, mother of millions |
| Toxic compound | Cardiac glycosides |
| Toxic parts | All parts |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Houseplant |
Symptoms of kalanchoe poisoning in cats
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abnormal heart rhythm (rare, with large amounts)
- Weakness
Why kalanchoe is toxic to cats
Cardiac glycosides work like an overdose of the heart drug digoxin. They block a pump that heart cells need to control their rhythm, which can cause a dangerously slow or irregular heartbeat, high blood potassium and sudden collapse. The toxin is present in every part of the plant and in water the plant has stood in.
What to do if your cat ate kalanchoe
- Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
- Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
- Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
- Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
- Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal heart rhythm. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.
Treatment and outlook
This is an emergency. Vets decontaminate (vomiting and activated charcoal, often repeated), give IV fluids, monitor the heart with an ECG, and treat arrhythmias. Digoxin-specific antibody fragments are used in severe cases.
How to keep your cat away from kalanchoe
- Place kalanchoe on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
- Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
Pet-safe alternatives to kalanchoe
If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
- BambooNon-toxic
- CalatheasNon-toxic
- FernsNon-toxic
- Areca PalmsNon-toxic
- African VioletsNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for cats.
Kalanchoe and cats: FAQ
Is kalanchoe poisonous to cats?
Kalanchoe is toxic to cats. Vomiting and Diarrhea are common, and larger amounts can cause more serious illness. Call your vet if your cat ate any.
What part of kalanchoe is toxic to cats?
All parts.
Can cats die from eating kalanchoe?
Deaths are uncommon, but large amounts can cause serious illness. Call your vet promptly.
How long after eating kalanchoe will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Is kalanchoe toxic to dogs too?
Yes, kalanchoe is toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- DaffodilsToxic
- MistletoeToxic
- AmaryllisToxic
- CyclamenToxic
- LiliesHighly toxic
- AzaleasHighly toxic
- OleanderHighly toxic
- Sago PalmsHighly toxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Cats
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonous Plants
Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.