Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe spp · Crassulaceae
How it looks
Kalanchoe is a succulent with thick, glossy, toothed leaves arranged opposite each other. Small four-petaled flowers gather like a large ball at the branch tips, commonly in red, pink, yellow, and orange. Height 8-16 in (20-40 cm); popular as a potted plant.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Kalanchoe contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting and depression if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble of Kalanchoe usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the unidentified compounds in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, depression, ataxia
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Kalanchoe spp
- Common name
- Kalanchoe
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Bufadienolides
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, depression, ataxia
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
Also known as
Related plants
Same plant family· Crassulaceae
Related guides
Top 10 Flowers Dangerous to Cats — The Ones You See at Florists
Ten flowers you'll commonly find at florists and grocery stores that are toxic to cats. Check before you receive them, and before you bring them home.
Got a Bouquet? What to Do If You Have a Cat
A bouquet is a lovely surprise — but if you live with a cat, there are a few things to take care of right away. From checking what's in the arrangement to choosing the right vase, here's what actually helps, in order.
Why Cats Chew Plants, and How to Stop It
A cat chewing and tearing at plants isn't just mischief — there's an instinct behind it. Once you understand why, the ways to stop it follow naturally.