Many cats enjoy their greens.
Although cats are carnivorous, it is not unusual to find them munching on something fresh and green. Whether they are drawn to the fragrance, the flavor or the texture of plants remains a mystery. Cats lack the instinct that keeps many herbivores from ingesting toxic materials. As a result, cats can be found dining on anything that catches their fancy, whether it is good for them or not. Luckily, long-standing cat favorites, such as dandelions, ferns, begonias and spider plants, are nontoxic and cause them no harm. Does this Spark an idea?
Dandelions
The dandelion is one of the world's most recognizable weeds. While many homeowners consider them an eyesore, cats, dogs and children are drawn to the bright blossoms and the crunchy, green leaves. Though the blossoms may be an unwelcome sight, they do no real harm to the surrounding environment. The edible stems are a source of vitamins A, C and D. Whether ingested accidentally or on purpose, pets and children suffer no ill effects. Herbicides used to remove dandelions pose a greater threat.
Poisonous Plants
Avoid cultivating of plants that are potentially harmful to their pets. Many common houseplants, such as ivies and philodendrons, and garden favorites, such daffodils, caladiums, lilies, honeysuckles and marigolds, are toxic to cats. While it may not be possible to remove every potentially poisonous plant from the environment, the cat's exposure to possible toxins can be reduced by simply checking the toxicity levels of unfamiliar plants before buying them.
Nonpoisonous Plants
Using plants, such as ferns, airplane plants, violets, scented geraniums, orchids and begonias, indoors adds a fresh, appealing air to the d cor, while posing no threat to the family feline. In the garden, miniature roses, tulips and impatiens can fill the yard with color and fragrance without causing harm to leaf-munching kittens. Additionally, drifts of catmint can be placed strategically throughout the yard to lure cats from potentially harmful areas.
Deterrents
Even when the foliage poses no real threat to the cat, it can be maddening to find a shredded, pulpy ruin where a favorite plant once stood. Place sliced limes or lemons near plants as a natural deterrent. Not only will this fill the room with a crisp, clean scent, it keeps the cat away as felines are repelled by the scent of citrus. Plants can be sprayed with a solution made from equal measures of distilled white vinegar and water. The acidic vinegar flavor makes the leaves unpalatable to the cat, but poses no harm to the plant.
Tags: favorites such, potentially harmful