Have you ever found yourself wondering if aloe vera is poisonous to cats? This is one of the most commonly asked questions by cat owners, especially since aloe vera is often found in shampoos, creams and other personal care products. Is this plant poisonous to cats? The answer is a cautious “no”.
The leaves and stems of this succulent perennial plant are so delicate that they easily grow into thin strands that can easily be ingested when placed in the mouth. The leaves can also cause gastrointestinal upset, indigestion and diarrhea-common symptoms of poisoning. However, the plant leaves may cause more serious problems if they are broken or damaged. The inside of the plant contains a gel-like substance that may cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract if the plant’s bitter taste is tasted. If the animal attempts to swallow the substance, it may cause vomiting, ulcerations or internal bleeding.
Even though some studies have been done on the toxic effects of houseplants, there are still no solid conclusions regarding this question. One reason for this is that some of the tests that have been completed on houseplants have involved sensitive species such as arnica and mistletoe. Other plants were not tested because they are too temperamental or grow too densely to be considered a threat. Also, because the concentration levels of chemicals in houseplants are low, many scientists feel that conclusions based on anecdotal evidence are not reliable. For these reasons, it is best to avoid using houseplants altogether.
So is aloe truly poisonous to cats? On one hand, the question may be completely true that this particular plant is potentially lethal to cats but it would be erroneous to assume that only this substance is dangerous. While it is true that aloe can cause an allergic reaction, there are a number of other medicinal purposes for which this plant is used. Some of these other medicinal purposes include the treatment of such things as skin abrasions, cuts and bruises, eczema and burns.
It has long been speculated that the reason why cats have become increasingly allergic to some parts of the plant is that the leaves of the plant contain a compound called again. Aloin is a highly poisonous compound. If ingested, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, breathing problems, circulatory collapse and shock. At worst, it can result in death.
However, there are a number of plants and houseplants that are well known for containing alkaloids, which are toxic to cats. Some of the most common toxic plants are amaryllis, azaleas, beeswax, bergamot, eucalyptus, frankincense, juniper, quinceanera, scented geraniums, Valerian and wormwood. While it is very rare, there is one type of plant that can be toxic to your cat, even if it is accidentally ingested. This is a plant called the milkweed. Milkweed contains a compound that can cause severe constipation in cats.
In addition to some plants that are toxic to cats, there are also some plants that are highly recommended for various medicinal purposes. Two plants that come to mind are the milkweed and the cleavers. Milkweed is highly recommended for its effect on flatulence and digestion, while the cleavers is recommended for cat nail health. These plants are not only highly recommended for medicinal purposes, but are also highly recommended for their affect on cats’ behavior and wellbeing.
Aloe vera is a great resource for your cat, providing it with a wide range of soothing effects and natural healing capabilities. The problem is not whether or not aloe vera is poisonous to cats, but when you use the product with caution. While there are many safe, effective products on the market that do not pose a danger to cats, there are others that can be dangerous. Do your research and choose carefully.