Wondering is wandering jew toxic to cats and dogs? Discover the answer about this wonderful houseplant in our informative post!
If you have both a cat or dog and a wandering jew plant, then this question must have crossed your mind–Is Wandering Jew Toxic to Cats and Dogs? Being a plant and pet lover you must be concerned for both, and you’re right. Well, this article will enlighten you!
Also Read: Can Cats Eat Rosemary?
What is a Wandering Jew Plant?
The Wandering jew (Tradescantia) is a warm climate tropical plant. This name is used for many different species in the Tradescantia genus that includes approx 75 herbaceous perennial species. Some of them are considered as invasive weeds, and some are popular as outdoor garden plants. Many are popular indoor plants for containers. You can learn about the most popular varieties here.
It’s an easy to grow plant, which can tolerate both sun and shade. However, the best growth is observed in partial shade and slightly moist soil. Well-drained potting soil and warm surrounding is favorable for indoor wandering jews. You can grow in window boxes, hanging baskets and creative pots. They look best cascading down from a height.
Also Read: 19 Low Light Indoor Plants Safe for Cats and Dogs
Is Wandering Jew Toxic to Cats?
According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), the wandering jew can be toxic to cats, dogs, and horses as it contains calcium oxalate crystals in leaves and stems. It may not seriously injure your pet but still chewing it can cause discomfort. This mildly toxic plant can cause skin or bowel irritation in cats. If your cat or dog has ingested any part of the plant; particularly the stem, then it can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
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Treatment of Wandering Jew Poisoning in Cats
If your cat shows symptoms like skin allergy or irritation in the abdomen, paws, anal area, and scrotum. Then try any of these following solutions.
- Give a bathe to your feline if there is any skin allergy or irritation.
- If you observe any digestive system related problem in your pet, then consult your regular vet for this.
- Let your cat drink enough water and avoid any movement.
- You can also apply aloe vera gel to the allergic area.
Also Read: Can Cats Eat Watermelon?
Protecting Your Pets from Wandering Jew Plants
You can protect your cats and dogs from wandering jew plant or vice versa by locating it in an area which is out of their reach. Growing it in hanging baskets is one of the resorts. If the long trailing vine falling below, keep them short by pruning wandering jew from time to time.
Know the Names of 11 Cat Safe Succulents here
Good and useful article for pet owners, but the term Wandering Jew is considered offensive in these more enlightened times.
People need to get over this stupidness and everything being offensive. Covid has given them too much time on their hands….Next they will want to change Betty White’s name or Clint Black.
Yes, thank you. You’re absolutely spot on with that. Nowadays people are offended by everything…and I mean EVERY LITTLE THING. How many names have to be changed to appease everyone? It’s ridiculous and not worth the hassle.
Just say you’re anti-semitic
Sometimes names give honor ,why does everyone think everything is always meant to offend. Sometimes it neither, its just what it is called.
Not Truly Offensive…
I’m a Jew and I have moved from City to city in my life only five times
&
yet I consider MySelf a
Wandering Jew!!!!!
My plant is sitting in water at the moment and my cat decided to drink the water, will this harm him?
I see your question was written in 2021. I’m sure you have answered your question.
You would most likely notice symptoms in your cat if you are observant regarding it’s behavior. My cat has been feeling sick for a week and I’ve just discovered the Wandering Jew is the reason. I got some clippings a week ago and on the drive home he must have eaten some as he was free in the car. He is improving daily, but I will take him to the vet tomorrow for further evaluation.