As a cat lover, I had a big question on my mind: Are coleus toxic to cats? As a cat-lover, I was curious about the toxic effects of coleus on cats.

This post will explain everything I know about the coleus plant and its effects on cats. I will also give you tips on how to enjoy this beautiful plant indoors or in the garden without worrying about your cats.

What is Coleus?

The striking foliage of the Coleus tropical plant is what makes it so popular. The leaves are brightly colored in pink, purple, yellow, green, and red. This is one of the easiest to grow plants in hanging baskets, containers or garden beds.

I’ve always been amazed at how quickly coleus can add color to an otherwise dull corner. It does well in partial shade, and it doesn’t require much care. Many cat owners keep coleus as a decorative indoor plant.

Before you introduce coleus to your cat, it is important that you understand the possible effects.

Is Coleus toxic to cats?

Coleus can be toxic to cats. It contains chemical compounds and essential oils that can upset the digestive system of cats if they eat it. It can cause skin irritation in some cases if the cat brushes up against the leaves.

After researching this topic, I discovered that the ASPCA, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, lists coleus to be unsafe for dogs, cats, and even horses. If you have pets like I do, then you should be careful.

Why is Coleus toxic to cats?

Coleus is toxic because of certain essential oils that are found in the plant. The oils that give coleus its strong smell can also be harmful to pets. Essential oils can be particularly harmful to cats, whose bodies are unable to process them.

These oils can irritate the stomach lining when a cat eats coleus leaves. When the oils are in contact with skin, they can cause rashes and redness.

Coleus poisoning in cats: Symptoms

You may start to notice symptoms after a few minutes if your cat has eaten coleus. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy is a feeling of unusual tiredness
  • If there is contact, skin redness or itching may occur.

Cats can also have difficulty breathing and trembling in severe cases. When I bring home new plants, I keep an eye on my cats. If I see any strange behavior, I immediately check to make sure they haven’t chewed something dangerous.

What to do if your cat eats coleus

You should not panic if you see your cat eating coleus, or if you suspect it may have eaten some. The most important thing to do is to act immediately. Even though plant poisoning usually has mild to moderate symptoms, your cat needs immediate care. What I would recommend is to follow these steps:

1. Restrict Access to Plants Immediately

Move your cat away from the plant as soon as you can. You can move the plant to another room or out of your cat’s reach if you are able. This will prevent your cat from consuming more flowers or leaves while you are deciding what to do next.

Check for broken or fallen stems and leaves. Cats can play with these things, chewing them without your knowledge.

2. Check for any symptoms

Be sure to watch your cat for any physical or behavioral changes. Some symptoms may appear in minutes, while others can take several hours. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Drooling and foaming of the mouth
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unusual fatigue or hiding
  • If the plant touches the skin, it may cause redness or itching.

If your cat is restless, pawing its mouth, or showing signs of stomach upset, then the coleus may have irritated their system.

3. Estimate the amount of food eaten

Check the plant to determine how many parts or leaves are missing. Did your cat just nibble on a small piece or eat an entire portion? Your vet will appreciate this information. Even a rough estimate, such as “a few leaves” or “a big chunk of the plant”, can make a huge difference.

4. Contact your veterinarian immediately

Even if you think your cat is fine, I recommend that you call your veterinarian immediately. The way cats process toxins is different from the way humans do, so symptoms can appear later. Tell your veterinarian:

  • What plant did your cat eat (Coleus)?
  • What may they have eaten?
  • What happened?
  • What symptoms have you noticed?

You may be asked to bring your cat into the vet for an examination if the vet feel that you can manage it at home.

5. Please follow the vet’s instructions.

Do not delay if your veterinarian tells you to visit. Bring in a leaf or stem sample so that the clinic can quickly identify the plant. Keep your cat in a carrier that is comfortable and allows it to get fresh air.

Watch your cat carefully for the next 24 hours if your vet recommends home monitoring. Be sure to give your cat water and avoid treats or other unusual foods. Also, note any vomiting or diarrhea you notice so that you can report the problem if necessary.

6. Don’t try home remedies on your own

Please don’t try to give milk, saltwater, or other home remedies that you read online. Some “remedies”, such as salt water, can worsen poisoning in cats. Follow the advice of your veterinarian.

How to Keep Cats Away from Coleus

There are some simple ways to protect your cat while still loving coleus.

1. Keep Coleus out of Reach: Your cats cannot reach your coleus plant if you keep it in a hanging basket or on a high shelf.

2. Use Cat-Safe Deterrents: Cats dislike citrus smells. Spray diluted orange or lemon water around the plant if you want to deter nibbling.

3. Offer Safe Alternatives: I keep cat grass (wheatgrass) in pots at home. It is a favorite of cats, who love to chew it.

4. Train Gently: Redirect your cat’s attention by giving it toys or treats if it keeps going to the coleus. Never punish your cat. Instead, guide it to safe behavior.

Coleus Alternatives that are Cat-Safe

You can choose cat-safe plants if you do not want to risk anything. Alternatives include:

  • Spider Plant: Cats love its texture, and it is non-toxic.
  • Areca Palm: Adds greenery with no risk.
  • Bamboo palm: Easy to grow and safe indoors.
  • Boston Fern: A houseplant that is pet-friendly and has lush, green leaves.

You can enjoy greenery in your home with peace of mind by choosing safe plants.

What I learned about cats and Coleus

I found out the hard way in my own home that cats can be too curious. My cat once ate a coleus and began drooling within an hour. Luckily, I contacted the vet right away and followed his advice. The experience was a valuable one. She recovered quickly.

Since then, before I bring plants home, I do research on them. I make sure that my cats have safe greenery to keep them from looking for trouble.

Final Thoughts

Are Coleus toxic to cats? They are. Although coleus brightens any room, it is not safe to share with cats.

Take precautions if you want to continue growing coleus. Keep it away from your cat. Consider safer alternatives to allow you to enjoy gardening with no worries. As both a cat owner and a plant enthusiast, I think we can coexist with both if we are careful.

FAQ

1. Are coleus toxic to cats? Ans:- Yes, Coleus is toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation.

2. What makes coleus toxic to cats? Ans:- The plant contains essential oils that irritate a cat’s digestive system and skin.

3. Can a cat die from eating coleus? Ans:- Death is very rare, but eating large amounts can cause severe illness. Always call a vet if your cat eats coleus.

4. What symptoms should I watch for if my cat eats coleus? Ans:- Look for drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness, or skin irritation.

5. What should I do if my cat eats coleus? Ans:- Call your vet immediately and follow their instructions.

6. Are all types of coleus toxic to cats? Ans:- Yes, all varieties of Coleus contain essential oils that are unsafe for cats.

7. Can Coleus cause skin problems in cats? Ans:- Yes, direct contact can lead to redness, itching, or rashes on sensitive skin.

8. Is it safe to grow coleus indoors if I have cats? Ans:- It is only safe if you place the plant completely out of your cat’s reach.

9. What plants are safe alternatives to coleus for cat owners? Ans:- Spider plants, areca palms, bamboo palms, and Boston ferns are safe choices.

10. How can I stop my cat from chewing unsafe plants? Ans:- Offer cat grass, use citrus sprays, and place plants in spots your cat can’t reach.