Are Bear Paw succulents toxic to pets? Let’s find out what you need to know about this and prevent possible accidental mishaps.
Bear Paw succulents—sound like the cutest plant that resembles your lovely furry friends right? But, if you are an animal lover don’t get fooled by its name and adorable appearance, because they can cause potential harm to your pets! Wondering how? Read along to know everything.
Are Bear Paw Succulents Toxic to Pets?
So the simple answer is ‘yes’—it is toxic to pets including cats and dogs. In fact, some say it is highly poisonous to humans and other domestic animals as well, especially sheep and goats. It seems despite sharing the name with an animal, the Bear Paw plant is not animal-friendly after all!
The plant contains a poisonous white sap that can affect the animal in several adverse ways. All parts of the plant are toxic when ingested. This is because it belongs to the Crassulaceae family, which contains phytochemical compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and other gastrointestinal issues in animals.
Caution: The meat of animals killed by this plant remains toxic even after cooking.
Effects and Symptoms
This plant produces insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation in the animal by getting stuck in the mouth. Additionally, Bear Paw succulents contain bufadienolides, which can be harmful if ingested and cause severe harm to your pets.
Besides, the major symptoms are vomiting, excessive drooling, or lethargy after consuming any part of this plant. While in mild cases it may only cause digestive discomfort that can heal after a while, if the quantity of consumption is too much then it can definitely lead to some serious health issues.
Consider Some Precautions
When it comes to Bear Paw succulents and pets, it’s better to be safe than sorry! Keep these plants out of paw’s reach—curious cats and playful pups won’t think twice before taking a nibble.
If you spot bite marks on the plant or notice your pet acting off—like excessive drooling, vomiting, or just being more sluggish than usual—don’t wait around. Call your vet right away! They’ll guide you on what to do next and keep an eye on any signs of poisoning.
Want to play it even safer? Swap out Bear Paw succulents for pet-friendly options like Haworthia, Echeveria, or Spider Plants. Your greenery stays gorgeous, and your furry friends stay out of trouble—a win-win!
Also, a little strategic plant placement goes a long way. Keep toxic succulents in spots your pets can’t reach, use pet-safe deterrent sprays, or offer them chew toys to keep their attention elsewhere. A little planning today can save a lot of worry tomorrow!
So, as you shower your love on both flora and fauna, being aware and safe is a practice that everyone must follow. In this attempt, knowing more about your green companions will always keep you and your family on the safer side. Let us know if you have any more queries regarding this.
