No, pansy orchids from the Orchidaceae plant family are not toxic for cats. Orchids are among the safer houseplants to have, offering peace of mind to pet owners in the event their cat or dog shows curiosity in nibbling on them.
It is essential to highlight that this article has been written in close collaboration with a team of experienced DVMs (doctors of veterinary medicine). Their expertise and contributions have greatly enriched our understanding, allowing us to provide precise and current data on the potential risks linked to various plants, particularly Pansy Orchids, and their effects on cats. Additionally, our assertions are backed by thorough research from high-authority websites such as ASPCA and PetMD, confirming the safety of members of the Orchidaceae family for pets.
Can Cats Eat Pansy Orchid?
The ASPCA reminds us that orchids are not poisonous to cats, despite the possibility that eating them could give your curious cat stomach pain and possibly result in vomiting similar to what happens when the grass is consumed. And this holds true for all types of orchids. Do not apply pesticides or fertilizers that you are unsure are safe for your cat; instead, keep this in mind.
What is a Pansy Orchid?
Pansy Orchid (Miltoniopsis roezlii) belongs to the genus Miltoniopsis. Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Panama are their native countries. It is a small, warm-growing epiphytic orchid that grows to a height of 28 to 38 cm. It has one narrowly rectangular, gray-green leaf and flattened, elliptical pseudobulbs that are covered in some distichous, imbricate foliar sheaths.
A mature pseudobulb with fragrant flowers and lanceolate bracts gives rise to an erect, resupinate, racemose inflorescence that can reach a length of 30 cm and bear 2 to 7 flowers in the summer and fall. The flowers have a diameter of 7 to 10 cm. They have an orange shield at the base of the lip and purple dots at the base of each inner whorl flake.
Keeping Cats Away From Pansy Orchid
Place plants and flowers away from your pet’s reach to start. Keep your plant collection in a place that your cat cannot access, use wall-mounted vases for flower arrangements, or hang planters from windows.
If none of these strategies will work, think about making a simple vinegar and water spray. After making sure it’s safe for the species, apply it to your plants or flowers. If this doesn’t work, a stronger repellent such as cinnamon or cayenne pepper can be sprinkled on the leaves of your plants.
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.
