The artillery plant is not toxic for cats. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Poison Control Center, it is likewise non-toxic to dogs and horses.
Even though artillery plants are not harmful to cats, cat parents should use caution when allowing their cats to consume plants.
Can Cats Eat Artillery Plant?
Cats are known to be inquisitive, therefore they are known to nibble on plants on occasion. There is no need to be concerned if your cat nibbled and chewed on a portion of artillery plant.
Although artillery plants may not pose a threat to cats, any chemicals used on the plant, such as fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides, can. A small quantity of fertilizer or other chemicals applied to indoor plants may leave residue on the leaves. If your cat consumes these chemicals through the artillery plant, he or she may become ill.
What is Artillery Plant?
Pilea microphylla is an annual plant native to Florida, Mexico, the West Indies, and South America. It is also known as angeloweed, artillery plant, and joy powder plant. The plant is a member of the Urticaceae family. It is planted as a ground cover in many locations because of its light green, almost succulent stems and small 1/8″ leaves, which lend to its other moniker, “Artillery Fern,” despite the fact that it is not related to ferns.
The artillery plant thrives in humid conditions. Leaf spots and stem rot can develop on occasion, and spider mites and mealybugs could attack. Indoor plants do not often produce blooms or fruits. Propagation is usually done through stem cuttings. The male flower releases pollen with explosive power, earning it the nickname “Artillery Plant.”
Keeping Cats Away From Artillery Plant
Since plants aren’t normally a part of a cat’s diet, it’s best not to give your cat a piece of Artillery plant. Cats are carnivorous creatures. Carnivorous animals lack the enzymes required to assimilate and digest the plant food in their stomachs.
Plants to Avoid For Your Cats
If you are a cat owner and unsure if the plants growing in your yard are harmful to your cats, check out this list of toxic plants for cats. You can also check our list of non-toxic plants for cats.
