The Philodendron Pink Princess is a popular houseplant with its stunning variegated leaves. This beautiful tropical plant with air-purifying properties can be the first choice for Philodendron collectors like me.
However, it comes with a hidden danger even being a vibrant plant, especially for our feline members. Consuming this plant can be severely dangerous for your beloved cat. So, cat owners sometimes hesitate to bring this beautiful plant into their homes.
However, knowing about the symptoms of Philodendron poisoning in cats can help you to prevent any unpleasant situation. So, go through this post thoroughly to get detailed information on how toxic Pink Princess can be for your cats and ways to prevent them besides enjoying the beauty of this variety of Philodendron.
What Are the Warning Signs of Philodendron Poisoning in Cats?
If your cat has ingested any part of a Pink Princess then, check out for the symptoms shared below to stop the spread of poison and save your cat.
Drooling
Although drooling is quite common among animals, excessive drooling indicates your cat has eaten the toxic plant. Excess saliva is produced to soothe irritation caused by the calcium oxalate crystals of a Pink Princess ingested by a cat. It is one of the most common and noticeable symptoms.
Painful Swallowing
Consuming any part of a Pink Princess can cause a burning sensation and inflammation in the throat and mouth of your cat. So, swallowing can be difficult and painful in this condition.
Vomiting
Your cat may vomit to expel the ingested toxins. You will notice vomit containing plant material.
Pawing at the Face
To alleviate the discomfort due to intense irritation in the mouth you may notice your cat to paw at its face.
Swelling of Lips and Mouth
The mouth tissues get directly irritated due to the calcium oxalate crystals. This can cause redness, inflammation, and swelling of the tongue, lips, and other oral structures.
Remember
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect that your cat has eaten a part of Pink Princess to prevent potential complications.
How Can You Keep Your Pet’s Sake From a Pink Princess?
Here are some useful ways to keep your feline friend safe from this variety of Philodendron.
Location
Always keep your Pink Princess on a hanging basket, a high shelf, or a dedicated plant stand that your pet cannot reach even with a running jump. However, even if placing the plant higher doesn’t work then, keep it in a closed sunroom that is not accessible by your pet.
Deterrence Strategies
You can use bitter apple spray on the leaves of a Pink Princess so, that your cat does not eat them, due to the bitter taste. Reapply the spray from time to time, especially after watering the plant.
You can also place orange and lemon peels around the base of the plant. This will prevent your cat from consuming the plant as most pets dislike the strong citrus scent.
However, this method can sometimes cause skin irritation in animals. So, supervise closely before implementing them.
Alternatives
You can grow an alternative to the Pink Princess for the safety of your cats. Planting Cat-safe plants like Heartleaf, ponytail plants, catnip or spider plants can be a good idea. You can also use toys like scratching posts, puzzle feeders, and feather wands to engage your pet’s chewing instinct.
Proper Training
Positive reinforcement and proper supervision can discourage your cat from chewing a Philodendron and also, establish good habits. Always keep a watchful eye on your cat when they are left alone in a room with the Pink Princess.
Always Be Prepared
If you notice symptoms like vomiting, drooling, or difficulty swallowing then immediately take your cat to a veterinarian. Always keep the contact number of an animal poison control center handy.
How to Choose the Perfect Spot for Your Philodendron Pink Princess?
To keep your pets safe and away from a Pink Princess, a perfect placement is necessary. Here’s a perfect spot for the stunning plant.
Out of Reach
Keeping a Pink Princess out of your cats’ reach can be difficult as your furry friends can easily jump and reach them.
However, placing this plant in a hanging planter near the ceiling, or on a high shelf can stop them from reaching the plant. Before making any decision consider the height your pet can comfortably climb or jump.
No Access Rooms
Placing your Pink Princess in a closed sunroom that is not accessible by your pet can be a good option if keeping the plant high doesn’t work. Make sure the doors are properly locked so, that your beloved pet can stay away from the plant.
How to Train Your Cats to Keep Them Safe From a Toxic Pink Princess?
Proper supervision and training can also help you to keep your pets away from this Philodendron. Here are some tips you can follow to keep your cats safe.
Teaching Good Habits
Positive reinforcement is the key to successful pet training. So, whenever your cats show interest in their designated toys or safe areas rather than going near the plant you should reward them with petting, treats, or praise.
Try to disengage your cat with their favorite toys or commands whenever they are approaching the plant. Clicker training can also be a wonderful way to keep your pets away from toxic plants. So, whenever your cats perform the correct action, make a click sound to mark the exact moment.
Proper Supervision
Try to maintain supervision whenever your pet is in the same room with a Pink Princess. Place them in a safe area like a pet playpen or a crate if you need to leave the room and cannot supervise. This will prevent your cats from coming close to the plant.
Set Boundaries
You can create a barrier around the plant using citrus peels or bitter apple spray so, that your pets cannot eat them. However, avoid harsh punishment and scolding and focus on positive reinforcement to get that long-lasting solution.
Conclusion
A Pink Princess is an undeniable variety of Philodendron. However, this beautiful tropical plant can be dangerous for your cats and other pets if ingested. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which can be toxic and cause severe harm to your furry friends.
So, perfect placement of the plant and placing it in an off-limits location is very important to keep your feline companion safe. However, if your cat has eaten any parts of a Pink Princess you will notice some symptoms that I have already shared above.
Contact your veterinarian immediately in this situation. I hope this article will be helpful for you to ensure both the continued beauty of your Philodendron and the well-being of your cat.