Are Bonsai Trees Poisonous to Cats?

Bonsai gardeners grow miniature, sculpted trees.

The word bonsai means "tray tree" or "tree in a pot." The art of bonsai involves growing miniature trees that look like old, nature-worn trees. Bonsai is typically an indoor gardening pursuit, and the plants used are not always safe for cats.

Identification

There is no specific tree species used in the art of bonsai. A variety of woody plants can be used, making it difficult to determine whether or not a specific bonsai tree is toxic to cats.

Considerations

Some of the trees used in the art of bonsai are harmless to felines while others cause adverse reactions. For example, ficus and sago palms are used in the art of bonsai and are considered by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to be harmful to cats.

Solution

Learn the scientific name of the tree you are using in your bonsai plant and cross-check the name with a list of plants toxic to cats. Avoid letting your cat eat unknown greenery.

Warning

If your cat suffers adverse effects from eating a bonsai tree, seek emergency veterinary medical care immediately. Adverse effects to watch for include, but are not limited to, loss of coordination, loss of consciousness, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite or thirst, and seizure.

References

• Bonsai Gardener: Types of Bonsai Trees
• Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension: The Art of Bonsai
• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List - Cats

Resources

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: Poison Control Center