Parlor Palm Toxic to Cats

True Or False?

You're probably wondering if a Parlor Palm is toxic to cats? Since you're a cat lover! Plus you're also a plant enthusiast? Right?

Is your parlor palm is safe to have around your feline friend? We all know how cats are curious creatures. Their instinct to investigate all their surroundings sometimes leads to trouble.

To keep your beloved pet safe, awareness of potential dangers lurking in your home is a good thing. Toxic plants are one of those worries. But is a parlor palm truly toxic to cats?

Researching if a Parlor Palm is Toxic to Cats! 😉

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You'd like to add greenery to your space without compromising your cat's health. Your cat's well-being is also our top priority - we're cat-lovers, too! So we're here to help you make informed decisions about your indoor garden.

To help you, we'll get into the Parlor Palm world. Related to their possible effects on cats. By separating fact from fiction. For accurate information about whether a parlor palm is toxic to cats, or not.

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Is a Parlor Palm Toxic to Cats?

Parlor Palms (Chamaedorea elegans), are a popular houseplant. You've gotten one, or are Considering One to add a tropical touch to your home. So, are there toxic risks? There's some confusion around whether a Parlor Palm is toxic to cats. We wonder why!

The simple truth is, a Parlor Palm is not toxic to cats. Parlor Palms are non-toxic for felines. As well as dogs & humans. Making them among Houseplant Palm Choices for pet owners.

They're safe to have around your cat. Typically not causing fatal harm if your cat tries to sample Parts of a Frond for a snack! But remember: just because a plant is non-toxic doesn't mean it's totally safe for your cat.

A labeled parlor palm growing in a garden.

Parlor Palms, a nice compact plant.
Outside Can Get to 8 ft./4.5m tall. Indoors: 6 ft/1.8m
Also Beautiful Growing Outdoors. Probably the Most Popular House Palm.

Potential Risks of Parlor Palms for Cats

But still, consider there are some potential risks to keep in mind. Some more likely, or more serious than others.

ICKY NAUSEA

Your Curious Cat may try to nibble on the plant's leaves. That isn't ideal, because they could get tummy effects. Causing digestive upset.

Cat looks to be considering a nibble on this monocot plant leaf.

Hmmm - Does it look yummy??

RAMBUNCTIOUS DANGERS

Additionally, most cats love to play. While jumping & chasing around, your cat could knock the palm over. For a passible injury. Slim chance, we think, but conceivable.

cat jumping through the air toward a potted palm, while woman looks on in horror

Is a Horrifying Experience Ahead Here?

HARSH CHEMICALS

There's another potential risk to think about. Have you used pesticides or fertilizers on your Parlor Palm? Your pet might not notice. But these chemicals can be harmful to your cat.

Remember, pesticides are poisonous & must be used with caution. In other words, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. For safe use, read those guidelines when purchasing, before using & if getting ready to store or dispose.

skull and crossbones for it to designate something is poisonous.

On the can/bottle be sure to Check the Signal Word for Toxicity.

Try not to use them. But if you decide to use pesticides, keep your Parlor Palm away from your cat's reach. Until your pest issue is solved. Then you'll want to clean the treated plant areas.

Potted plants typically need fertilizing to address nutritional needs. But the Parlor Palm grows slowly. You can apply Liquid Fertilizer, at the most, once/month. Dilute it well & follow directions. Cats won't be harmed, as long as they don't eat planting medium!

THIS CHOICE HAS TOTALLY BALANCED MACRONUTRIENTS

Seems to Work Well

FRUIT WORRIES

The most serious problem could be Parlor Palm fruit.

Tiny bright yellow flowers grow on an inflorescence amidst the leaves. Providing fruit for the seeds. The Parlor Palm's round fruits are black. Berry-like at only 1/4 (0.25) inches (6.35 mm) in diameter.

Side by side look at a parlor palm with fruit, and a close-up of the fruit.

On Left: A Look at the Parlor Palm with Unripe Fruits.
On Right: Close-up Look at the Unripe Fruits of a Parlor Palm
The Fruit Color Will Turn Black as They Ripen.

So fruits can be a problem. In fact, this is cautionary for any in the Genus Chamaedorea.

Part of their make-up is calcium oxalate crystals. It's a strong irritant. If your cat attempts to eat the fruit, or even lick it, they may suffer.
These very tiny crystals have sharp, pin-like or cutting corners. Causing multiple tiny cuts to delicate inner mouth areas. Will these fruit pieces get past the kitty's mouth? Maybe, then the same will happen as it travels along. Ouch!!
Effects are lots of pain, tissue swelling, & swallowing issues. Their meowing voice may sound oddly different for awhile.

microscopic look at calcium oxalate crystals

Calcium Oxalate Crystals - Microscopic View With Polarized Light. Turning a Bright White.
Image Credit: Dr. Yale Rosen Atlas on Flickr

Cats are unlikely to be poisoned by These Crystals. Why? Your cat has a lot of "cat-sense" despite its curiosity. Kitty will quickly realize the error of eating these fruit chunks. So enough of it probably won't reach their stomach to cause true poisoning. Or system toxicity.

If you notice your cat has consumed this fruit, take immediate action. You'll probably need two people for this process. Plus Oven Mitts for hand protection.

two people sitting on the floor trying to help a cat

Try opening your cat's mouth. With a small damp cloth wipe around reachable areas. Taking away any fruit remnants.
Can you get your cat to drink some cool/cold water? I've known some cats who love ice. Will your cat down some crushed ice?
BUT THEN, are there still worrisome issues? Is there excessive mouth swelling? Is kitty's breathing getting noisy? Then take your cat to a Veterinarian ASAP.

Problem With Parlor Palm Fruit Juices?

Did your cat closely inspect a fruit? But immediately reject eating it? He/she may still have gotten some fruit juices touching the nose, skin or sensitive paw areas. That would be painful. There would be burning & possible swelling. What to do?

Inspect for affected areas. Get a small basin of warm water & Dawn Dish Soap.
Lather up a washcloth with the soap & clean where needed. Then use a different washcloth dripping with cool water to rinse.
Do this again & again, to tamp down irritable effects. If your cat still seems distressed, don't hesitate to get with your Veterinarian.

Military veterinarian checking on a cat who may have been in contact with a poisonous plant

Maybe Just Consult Your Veterinarian For the Best Advice.
You Might Have to Bring Your Cat in for an Exam

Signs of Poisoning in Cats

Do you worry for your cat? Wanting to know symptoms to be aware of? In case kitty might swallow part of any toxic plant. Yes, in general, you should know the signs of poisoning in cats.

There can be a range of symptoms. It depends on what & how much was ingested. But common signs to look out for are:

Vomiting and/or diarrhea. Plus appetite loss is likely.
Lethargy and/or seizures
Difficulty breathing

Notice any of these symptoms in your cat? Definitely get to veterinary care immediately.

This Cat is Hurting!

Tips to Keep Cats Safe Around Houseplants

While many plants are safe for cats, we know you want to be cautious. It's always good to take precautions to keep your feline friend safe. You might now be thinking if having a Parlor Palm is a good idea, when you have a cat.

We think you'd like some tips for keeping cats safe around houseplants! Right?

Keeping your houseplants out of reach is actually the most effective way to keep cats safe around them. Use hanging baskets or placement on high shelves.

Will that keep your plants away from curious paws? For some felines, probably not! Not their fault, it's just their catsy nature. Right?!

If your cat is particularly curious, try using deterrents. That may keep them away from your Parlor Palm.

Cats dislike the smell of citrus. Using a citrus spray near your plant might deter your curious kitty.
Aluminum foil might work. You'd have to place it just right. Try locating Crafting Decorative Foil? For a better look.

Felines are uncomfortable walking on aluminum foil. Making this technique an effective deterrent.

All this not worth it? Instead select safer plants for your indoor garden. Those that are fully safe for cats. This way, you won't have to worry about potential toxicity or distressing harm to your feline friend.

Spider Plants are easy to care for. They're great in hanging baskets! But importantly, they're safe for cats. Their small white flowers can add a pop of color to your space.
Boston Ferns are popular for indoor gardens. With a tropical-ly look. They're safe around cats. They do love humidity, though. So maybe use them in your kitchen or bathroom.

Spider Plant

Boston Fern

Parlor Palm Cat Toxicity Takeaways

We know cats have a curious personality. That may be a problem for some types of plants. If we look into the Parlor Palm, is it toxic to cats?

In general it's safe around your pet. But sometimes feline curiosity goes the extra mile. Problems arise if your kitty gets ahold of the Parlor Palm fruit. It has crystals that cut into delicate tissue, or irritate ears, nose & paws.

You can treat it, but watch for worsening symptoms. Then a veterinarian is needed.

You can try Plant Keep-Away, with deterrents. Or you could choose an alternate plant.

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