Yes, the purple Inch plant, also known as Tradescantia pallida or Wandering Jew, is indeed poisonous to cats. Pet owners should exercise caution and keep these plants out of reach of their feline companions.
Why Inch Plants Are Toxic to Cats
The danger posed by Inch plants stems from the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals within their leaves and stems. These microscopic, needle-like crystals act like tiny shards of glass. When a cat chews on or ingests parts of the plant, these crystals penetrate the tissues of the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract.
This contact leads to:
- Immediate and intense pain
- Significant swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips
- Severe irritation
Symptoms of Inch Plant Poisoning in Cats
If your cat has ingested or chewed on a purple Inch plant, you might observe several distressing symptoms. The onset of symptoms is usually immediate due to the mechanical irritation caused by the crystals.
Common signs of poisoning include:
- Oral Pain: Your cat may paw at its mouth, cry, or show reluctance to eat or drink.
- Excessive Drooling (Hypersalivation): This is a very common and noticeable symptom, as the pain and irritation stimulate saliva production.
- Swelling: Visible swelling of the lips, tongue, and inside of the mouth.
- Vomiting: While less common than oral irritation, some cats may vomit if enough plant material is ingested or due to gastrointestinal upset.
- Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Due to swelling and pain in the throat.
- Loss of Appetite: Pain in the mouth makes eating uncomfortable.
What to Do If Your Cat Ingests an Inch Plant
If you suspect your cat has chewed on or ingested any part of a purple Inch plant, it's crucial to act quickly.
Here are the immediate steps to take:
- Remove the Plant: Immediately remove the plant from your cat's reach to prevent further ingestion.
- Rinse Mouth (Carefully): If your cat allows, gently rinse its mouth with cool water to help remove any remaining crystals. Be very careful not to cause further distress or be bitten.
- Contact Your Veterinarian: Call your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately. Provide them with the name of the plant (Tradescantia pallida or purple Inch plant) and a description of your cat's symptoms. They will provide guidance on whether your cat needs to be seen and what immediate care might be required.
- Do Not Induce Vomiting: Never try to induce vomiting in your cat unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian. This can sometimes cause more harm.
Preventing Exposure
The best way to protect your cat from the purple Inch plant's toxicity is to prevent exposure altogether.
- Avoid Bringing Them Home: If you have cats, it's safest to avoid purchasing purple Inch plants.
- Keep Plants Out of Reach: If you already own one, place it in an area inaccessible to your cat. Consider hanging baskets, high shelves, or rooms where your cat is not allowed.
- Opt for Pet-Safe Alternatives: There are many beautiful plants that are non-toxic to cats.
- Examples of Cat-Safe Plants:
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
- African Violet (Saintpaulia spp.)
- Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)
- Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
- Examples of Cat-Safe Plants:
By being aware of the risks and taking preventative measures, you can ensure a safer environment for your beloved feline companion. For a comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants, consult reputable sources like the ASPCA Poison Control Center.
