Red-marginated dracaena is considered to be poisonous to cats. However, this is occasionally disputed because no particular toxin has yet been discovered. All portions of the plant may contain steroidal saponins or different alkaloids that might induce an unpleasant response once ingested by cats. There is also the possibility that the plant material is just indigestible to a cat and is excreted by the body as vomit or its entirety from the intestines.
Because red-marginated dracaena is often used as a houseplant, it is possible that indoor cats will come into touch with it at some point. Cats may be enticed to eat the plant because it resembles grass. While the plant poses only a little risk, you should still be cautious particularly if your cat has access to a red-marginated dracaena.
What Is Red-marginated Dracaena?
In temperate climes, red-marginated dracaena is a hardy, drought-tolerant, slow-growing houseplant. They can reach 20 feet in their natural habitat but may be clipped to 6 feet for indoor use. When a stem is pruned, it normally sprouts two or more branches. The stems may be trained into various forms for an Asian or architectural appearance. They seldom blossom when grown indoors.
Red-marginated dracaena or scientifically called Dracaena marginata, is also commonly known as Dragon Tree, Malaysian Dracaena, Pleomele, and Straight-marginated Dracaena. Red-marginated dracaena is endemic to Eastern Africa. It may be cultivated as a tree or shrub and can reach heights of 15 feet when planted in the ground. It is ideal for usage in gardens, although, in its smaller size, it is most usually seen as an interior plant. Red-marginated dracaena is popular because of its tropical look and simplicity of maintenance.
Clinical Signs of Red-marginated Dracaena Poisoning in Cats
If a cat consumes a red-marginated dracaena, modest symptoms with the potential for moderate sickness may occur. Symptoms that cats may manifest are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive drooling
- Depression
- Weakness
- Dilated pupils
- Staggering
- Rapid heartbeat
First Aid and Treatment of Red-marginated Dracaena Poisoning in Cats
If the cat is having difficulty getting rid of the plant material, the veterinarian may induce vomiting by giving hydrogen peroxide until all stomach contents are eliminated.
The cat may get dehydrated after a prolonged bout of vomiting. If the condition has deteriorated sufficiently, intravenous fluids and electrolytes must be administered. Throughout this process, the cat will need to be hospitalized.
Recovery from Red-marginated Dracaena Poisoning in Cats
A cat that has eaten straight margined dracaena is likely to recover quickly within 24 hours after ingesting the plant. Symptoms should stop as soon as all plant material has been eliminated from the cat’s body, and no long-term harm should occur. There have been no known animal fatalities as a result of eating red-marginated dracaena.
Prevention of Red-marginated Dracaena Poisoning in Cats
Keep any houseplants out of reach of the cat and sweep up any fallen leaves on a regular basis. It is recommended to fully eliminate any plants in your home that may represent harm to cats. Keeping your cat indoors will also keep it from coming into touch with these or other hazardous plants growing in nearby gardens.
If you love plants but have cats at home, check out these lists:
