Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata or Zygocactus truncata) is a famous cactus in the family Cactaceae. It may also be marketed as holiday cactus or Christmas cactus (but are not true Christmas cactus, Schlumbergera x buckleyi).
Like the rest of the plants in the genus Schlumbergera, they are native to Brazil’s Southeastern coastal region.
Zygocactus are not toxic to cats, dogs, or even horses, making them a great choice houseplant. However, there seems some contradictory information on safety.
While ASPCA clears the plant as safe for dogs, cats, and dogs, the ASPCA Pro notes that “all that has been seen in dogs is vomiting, diarrhea (both potentially with blood), anorexia and depression. In cats, ataxia has also been reported.” These symptoms are mild, and they resolve in a matter of hours.
However, they are not as dangerous or toxic if ingested as thought. There is no reason not to have them as houseplants, all they may cause is uncoordinated movement or ataxia, and to you, they may cause a mild allergic reaction.
Discourage eating
While they don’t pose a severe threat, it is good to discourage the eating of these cacti and other houseplants. An excessive amount of even safe plants may cause gastrointestinal troubles since kitties can’t digest much plant material.
Also, excessive plant-eating may indicate that your cat has nutritional imbalances or boredom, or other causes of pica. Talk to your vet for further assistance.
To prevent cats from ingesting the various houseplants you may be having, some of the great strategies include the following:
- Have enclosed plant or cat-proof terrarium.
- Placing the plants in places least frequented by your cats
- Use pet-friendly cat repellents like PetSafe SSSCAT Spray Dog and Cat Deterrent, Motion Activated Pet Repellent. You may want to try placing orange peel on the pot you are growing your plants at home. These animals don’t like the citrus smell it has.
- Ensure they have the right diets to avoid nutritional deficiencies and ensure you have cat toys to keep your feline pal engaged
- Place sharp decorative stones on the pot to discourage digging and minimize the chances of your cat wanting to sit on the flower pot.