My best friend growing up was my cat Lulu [name changed for privacy].
Lulu was always well behaved except when we put vases of flowers on the center of the dining room table. As my family chatted in the adjoining living room, she'd jump onto the antique table, make her way to the center, sniff a few blossoms, take a good look at us to make sure we were watching, and then -- whap -- swat those flowers like they were boxing opponents to be defeated in one knockout punch.
Although fresh bouquets were fair game, Lulu really got a kick out of knocking over dried flower bundles. You know how when you're arranging dried stems a ton of debris flies all over your table, you, and your floor? Lulu loved that. She'd jump down from the table and swat at stray blossoms for hours.
I can't lie. If Instagram Reels had existed when I was young, we'd have filmed Lulu. She might have even had a YouTube channel.
Looking back, though, I have to wonder: were any of those flowers bad for our furry friend? Maybe so.
These are toxic plants you might reconsider keeping in your home if you have kitties:
- Lilies
- Aloe Vera
- Azaleas
- Dieffenbachia
- Tulips (especially the bulbs)
- Sago Palm
- Oleander
- Chrysanthemums
- Peace Lilies
- Foxglove
- Pothos (Devil's Ivy)
- Morning Glory
- Hydrangea
- Daffodil
- Marijuana
This list is not exhaustive, so be sure to look up whatever plants you intend to bring indoors.
According to the ASPCA, better, non-toxic choices to display around cats may include African violets, blue echeveria, many daisies, Boston ferns, Christmas cactus, hibiscus, jasmine, lemon balm, most orchids, peperomia, roses, sunflowers, and zinnia.
And, what about catnip? Oh, how Lulu adored her catnip trips! It turns out Nepeta cataria is non-addictive, poses few health risks, and can be enjoyed in moderation. Limit this special treat to a few supervised play times a week to minimize stomach upset.
Fun fact: did you know that not all cats enjoy catnip? Only about 50-70% of cats are stimulated by the plant.
Until next time,
Ann