The Belmore Sentry Palm, alternatively known as the curly palm or kentia palm, is recognized as a non-toxic plant for cats, as well as for dogs and horses, presenting no harmful effects to these animals.
This article is meticulously crafted in collaboration with a team of seasoned Doctors of Veterinary Medicine (DVMs) whose invaluable insights ensure the delivery of precise and current information regarding the potential hazards related to various flora, focusing here on the Belmore Sentry Palm, and their impact on feline friends. To reinforce the credibility and reliability of the information provided, extensive research has been conducted, consulting high-authority websites such as ASPCA and PetMD for every plant discussed. The Belmore Sentry Palm is particularly favored as a houseplant due to its dual benefits of being cat-friendly and its capability to purify air pollutants, making it a safe and beneficial addition to homes with pets.
Can Cats Eat Belmore Sentry Palm?
Cats nibbling, licking, or getting in contact with a Belmore sentry palm should not cause any worry for cat parents. However, this does not mean that it is safe to let your feline babies eat the plant regularly.
As carnivorous animals, cats do not have adequate enzymes to process plant matter in their stomachs. Thus, they may tend to experience indigestion problems if they consumed too many plants of any kind.
Fertilizers, pesticides, and any chemicals that are possibly used on plants can also affect your cats if they happen to ingest this.
What is Belmore Sentry Palm?
Scientifically known as Howea belmoreana, the Belmore sentry palm is a species of Arecaceae that is endemic to Lord Howe Island, Australia. A mature kentia palm tree has a canopy that is 5–10 feet in diameter and has 36 leaves. The Royal Horticultural Society has awarded Howea belmoreana the Garden Merit Award.
Belmore sentry palm is sometimes confused with the Areca palm. They both appear identical from a distance, but the secret to recognizing them differently is to look at the leaves. The Belmore sentry palm has larger, more coarse leaves than the Areca, which has more thin, feather-like leaves.
Keeping Cats Away From Belmore Sentry Palm
We recommend keeping your Belmore sentry palm and other plants away from your cats, even if they are non-toxic. You can safeguard your plants while also ensuring that your cat does not experience any illnesses.
Covering the plants and soil with aluminum foil will deter burrowing cats from getting near them. If your cat likes scratching the plant’s pot, you can try covering it with double-sided adhesive tape. They detest the feel of these surfaces on their paws.
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.
