My Cat Chewed Ficus Tree Leaves and Survived

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My Aldi ficus tree was doing remarkably better - until my cat started chewing on it. Yes, I know that ficus is toxic to cats. I keep my bedroom door closed now. She didn't suffer any ill effects and my title was dramatic, but I wouldn't risk it after knowing that it can be harmful. Besides, the leaves are now riddled with puncture marks, and I'd like it to survive another 15 years. 

That plant was about six inches tall and started as a bonsai when I bought it a decade and a half ago. It started out with a neatly braided trunk secured with gold twist ties. Unfortunately, one section didn't grow tall like the rest. I quit trying to keep it braided after it became obviously shorter. 

Toxic Plants and Cats

Back to the subject of my post, since I am covering the dilemma of my cat chewing on my ficus tree. Many houseplants are toxic, including but not limited to poinsettia and lilies. You must keep the cat and plants separated or opt for other varieties. If you can't keep your house tiger away it's best not to risk it. 

The following are some of the most common toxic houseplants. They're not all rooted in soil. Some are popular cut flowers in florist's bouquets and can even be hydroponic. 
  • Aloe
  • Daffodil
  • Lily
  • Sago palm
  • Azalea
  • Poinsettia
  • Fiddle fig
  • Tulip
  • Oleander
  • Amaryllis
  • Pencil cactus
  • Philodendron
  • Asparagus fern
  • English ivy
  • Pothos
  • Mum
  • Dieffenbachia
  • Hyacinth
  • Jade
  • Cyclamen
  • Crown of thorns
  • Lily of the valley
  • Arrowhead vine
  • Monstera
  • Rhododendron
  • Dracaena
  • Widow's thrill (kalanchoe) 

Our Daily Routine Includes...

I've been giving my two cats, Teddy and Mitsy, fresh catnip almost daily. It grows like weeds in the front landscape. We have a routine, and if I don't stick to it they remind me until I do exactly what they want. Cats are creatures of habit, and when their routine is off they let you know it! She chewed on the ficus tree leaves the day she didn't have catnip.

Typically, while trying to enjoy my morning coffee the cats ask for their squeeze-up treat. It sounds as if Teddy is saying 'mama'. No, I'm not crazy, at least not that I'm aware of! I'll share a recording of Teddy saying 'mama' in an upcoming post. They share chicken or duck pate, and Mitsy waits for my cereal bowl. I leave about a teaspoon of milk for her. Any more than a teaspoon and she'd barf for sure. Cats are lactose intolerant, but she can handle a little dairy. 

Next, they stare at me without blinking as I drink my last few sips of barely warm coffee. I have to go outside and retrieve several catnip leaves. They prefer the smaller deep green ones that grow on the upper branches. It becomes unmistakably pungent as I tear it up into equal sections. Teddy enjoys his nip in the living room by what I've dubbed his emotional support table, and Mitsy waits on the bottom stair of an adjacent carpeted stairway. If only catnip worked for humans! I'll have to be happy with coffee. 

Wheatgrass grows fast!

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Trying Wheatgrass for Cats Next 

I've read or heard that cats like wheatgrass, and it's a healthy addition to their diet. It's purportedly great for their eyesight, immune system, and gut health. Since it isn't fragrant I could easily grow it indoors without being driven insane - as long as the cats can't reach it. Too much of anything isn't good for anyone, especially ficus and other known toxic plants. Wheatgrass kits for cats are inexpensive, and I plan on growing some when the catnip season ends. 


Does your cat or cats like catnip, or are they immune to its happiness-inducing effects? Has your cat ever been sickened by ficus or other toxic plants? Share your experience in the comments. 

Take care,

Kim


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