Orchids are beautiful, exotic flowers that make a welcome addition to any home. However, if you have pets, knowing whether orchids pose a danger to your furry friends is important. In this article, we’ll find out if orchid plants are pet friendly.
Are Orchids Toxic to Pets?
According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Protection of Animals), orchids are non-toxic to pets. As such, all types of orchids are pet friendly and safe around cats, dogs, and other animals. This includes popular orchid varieties such as Dendrobium orchids, Phalaenopsis orchids, and Vanda orchids.
About Orchid Plants
Orchids are colorful flowering plants from the Orchidaceae family. This family contains thousands of species divided into hundreds of genera. Orchids are found globally, especially in Asia and tropical parts of the Americas.
Orchids can either be epiphytes, lithophytes, or terrestrial plants. Epiphytic orchids are climbers that attach themselves to other plants using aerial roots. Lithophytic orchids attach themselves to rocks, while terrestrial orchids grow in soil.
Many types of orchids are grown as houseplants. However, some species can also be grown outdoors in USDA Zones 6 to 11. Some of the most popular types of orchids include Dendrobium orchids, Phalaenopsis orchids, and Vanda orchids.
Most orchids are known for their beautiful, colorful flowers and thick, fleshy leaves. Most orchids are evergreen plants, although some species are deciduous.
What Effects Do Orchids Have on Pets?
Although orchids aren’t toxic to pets like cats and dogs, they can still affect your animals. If your pet consumes part of an orchid, it may experience minor gastronomic distress. These effects can include vomiting and diarrhea, although these symptoms shouldn’t last longer than a few hours.
As such, keeping your orchids away from your pets is still a good idea whenever possible. Curious pets may still take a bite out of your orchid, leaving you with a damaged plant. Pets may also knock orchids over, breaking their pots and making a mess in your home.
What to Do if Your Pet Consumes an Orchid?
If you suspect your pet has eaten part of an orchid, keep an eye on them. Your pet may experience minor stomach problems, such as diarrhea or vomiting. Thankfully, these issues should only last for a few hours before your pet recovers.
If your pet continues to have problems after a few hours, contact your veterinarian immediately. You may need to book an emergency appointment to get your pet examined.
How to Keep Your Pets Away From Orchids
Even though orchids aren’t toxic to pets, keeping your pets away from orchids is still a good idea. This helps stop your pet from eating orchids while keeping your plants safe. That also means less mess to clean up.
Place your orchids in rooms where your pets aren’t allowed. Alternatively, position your orchids on tall shelves or other areas your cat or dog can’t access. You can also train your pet not to eat your orchids.
There are several ways to separate orchids growing outdoors from your pets. Use companion plants such as marigolds to deter your pets from investigating your orchids. Companion plants produce strong smells or thorny stems to discourage pets and other animals.
Are Orchid Plants Pet Friendly FAQs:
Are Orchids Safe Around Animals?
All types of orchids are non-toxic to pets, making them safe around animals like cats and dogs. That said, keeping your pets away from orchids is still a good idea. Your pet may experience minor diarrhea or vomiting if it eats an orchid.
Are All Orchids Safe for Cats?
All orchids are safe around cats because these plants aren’t toxic to felines. However, it’s still worth keeping your cat away from your orchids. Cats can still experience minor vomiting or diarrhea if they investigate and eat an orchid.
What Happens if a Cat Eats an Orchid?
If your cat eats an orchid, it shouldn’t suffer any severe or fatal effects. All types of orchids are non-toxic to cats. However, cats that eat orchids may experience minor gastronomic distress, including diarrhea and vomiting.
Wrapping Up
According to the ASPCA, all orchids are pet-friendly because they aren’t toxic to cats, dogs, or other pets. However, pets can still experience minor vomiting or diarrhea if they consume orchid plants. These symptoms should subside in a few hours, but keeping your pets away from your orchids is still best.
For more, see our in-depth guide to popular flowers that are toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets.
Edd is a budding content writer and gardener living in the United Kingdom. He has a bachelor's degree in Creative and Professional Writing and has written for several gardening publications online. He is passionate about nature and sustainability with a focus on gardening and wildlife.
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