Comic #12 - Plant Eater
Written by Cristina Byrne | Illustration by Sarah JL Mapes
Pan likes to chew on the house plants. The problem with that is… he is eating all my house plants!
Houseplants are beneficial to a home because they “keep carbon dioxide levels down, remove certain pollutants, improve moisture levels and keep airborne dust down in homes” but some house plants can be toxic to pets.
So why do cats and dogs like to eat plants?
According to cathealth.com, "even though cats are primarily carnivores, in the wild they also nibble on plants, for added nutrients or fiber, or perhaps just because they like the taste. In the home, cats sometimes eat houseplants out of boredom, or because they're attracted to the leaves fluttering in the air currents."
As for dogs, according to thenest.com, "the reason dogs eat plants is somewhat of a mystery. As omnivores, dogs would often ingest plant material from the stomach of downed prey in the wild, and eating houseplants helps satisfy those urges. Still others think dogs eat plants as a way to fulfill some nutritional deficiency."
Below is a short list of common house plants that can be problematic to your pets according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) so you can stay informed on how to keep your furry friends safe, happy and healthy.
Mildly Toxic Plants
(1) Fiddle Leaf Fig
(2) Spider Plant
(3) Pothos or Devil’s Ivy
(4) Dumbcane
(5) Peace Lily
(6) Philodendron
(7) Calla Lily
(8) Chinese Evergreen
Read detail information HERE.
Moderately Toxic Plants
(1) Corn Plant
(2) Dragon Tree
(3) Ribbon Plant
(4) Jade Plant
Read detail information HERE.
Severely Toxic Plants
(1) Sago Palm
(2) Easter Lily
Read detail information HERE.
When introducing a new houseplant be mindful to ensure they are safe for your pets. Its also always best to keep houseplants out of a pet's reach.
Also, leaving your pet with a range of toys when they are home alone will provide mental stimulation and teaches your pet to associate play with toys, not plants.
