Brazilian orchid is not toxic for cats. As listed by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Brazilian orchids are not only considered non-toxic for cats but also for horses and dogs.
Cat owners should be aware though that not because Brazilian orchid is considered safe means cats can eat the said plant whenever they want.
Can Cats Eat Brazilian Orchid?
The short answer is yes. Cats can actually eat a part of the Brazilian orchid.
However, it is important to remember that cats are not herbivores. This means that cats do not have enough enzymes to properly digest plant matter. Large consumption of plants will make cats feel sick. This will cause them gastrointestinal issues and show symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.
Another thing to remember is that chemicals used on plants can also affect your feline companions. If you have cats, be cautious in using fertilizers and insecticides. As much as possible use the natural ones and ensure that it is cat-friendly.
It is highly unlikely though that your cat will eat excessive amounts of Brazilian orchids because of their unappetizing taste.
What is a Brazilian Orchid?
Brazilian orchids are part of Sophronitis genus which is a fairly small genus of tropical distribution in Brazil. Other common names for Brazilian orchids are Cat Orchid, Corsage Orchid, Queen of orchids, and Cattleya.
In the Sophronitis genus, there are two types of species. The first is Sophronitis cernua, which is also the type species; some say there is also Sophronitis pterocarpa, although the flowers are virtually the same and only the winged pedicels (at the ovary part) differ from those of Sophronitis cernua.
Brazilian orchid is made up of three primary components: thick, fleshy rhizomes that provide support and have a fleshy covering that works as a water-holding region, one or two leaves, and pseudobulbs. It develops as an epiphyte among the branches of big jungle trees, wrapping its thick rhizomes around the branches for support. The Brazilian orchid flowers are available in almost every hue.
Keeping Cats Away From Brazilian Orchid
Even if Brazilian orchids are said to be unpalatable for cats, keeping them away from your feline friends is still imperative. This will not only protect your cats but also your beautiful plants.
The ideal trick is to use aluminum foil. Place an aluminum foil over the soil and near your plants. For potted plants, you may wrap the foil around the pots. Cats detest the crinkly sound, odor, and texture of the aluminum foil thus, this will make them avoid your plants.
If your feline friends like to scratch your pots, another trick is to use adhesive tapes. Wrap double-sided adhesive tape around your plant pots. Cats do not like sticky textures so they will keep their paws away from your plants by using this method.
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.
