Are African Violets Poisonous to Cats

From time to time, we got questions like this. Safety is very important for anybody having various plants and small children and pets at home.

Answer is very simple - No, African violets are not poisonous to cats. Actually, African violets are totally safe if something or somebody eats them :o)

Only if you used some chemicals to protect your African violet plants (insecticides, fungicides etc.), eating parts of the plants can be dangerous to the cats (or children, dogs, birds ...). Also, if you have treated your plants (not only African violets) with chemicals and some animal touch them with fur or feathers, later grooming of the fur or feathers can cause some toxins to be consumed.

Very often, one can find insecticides and/or other chemicals that are not poisonous to warm blood animals (birds included), but nonetheless, be careful when using even those chemicals.

Also, be careful when storing chemicals in homes - little children and pets, especially dogs, get smarter and smarter every day. For them, finding something forbidden can be fun, but dangerous one.

Following table provide list of non-poisonous and poisonous plants that can be found in or around houses. This is general list for small children, cats, dogs and similar warm blooded creatures. There are many other plants that are commonly found where ever pets and children play - so, be cautious when your pet or child is near unknown plants.

Symptoms of poisoning are various, but usually it is vomiting, diarrhea, high temperature, nausea etc. If that happen (unfortunately), take your pet or child and go strait to the nearest vet or doctor.

If possible, make them puke (if they are not already vomiting) stomach content - this will make them feel better and decrease amount of poisonous substances in their bodies. If possible, take a sample of the 'problematic' plant for identification.

If you have pets and indoor plants, for example berries, and you are worried about their health, check Can Dogs Eat Blueberries, Bananas, Watermelons and Other Fruits - Healthy Dog Treats article on Mad About Berries site. Dogs are very smart and they will do almost anything to get what they really want :)

Well, this article has come long way from simple question 'Are African Violets Poisnous to Cats', but I feel it is important to say word or two on this subject ...  :o)