The elephant's foot is a popular houseplant, but is it particularly poisonous to children or pets? We clarify.
Elephant's foot (Beaucarnea recurvata) is a welcome green in the living room because of its unusual appearance and easy care. But especially families with small children or enthusiastic cat fans should beware of the pitfalls of this Mexican survivalist.
Elephant's Foot: Toxic to children and adults?
The elephant foot has a moderate level of toxicity due to the saponins it contains. These substances help the tree to ward off fungi and bacteria. This is usually not a problem for adults, because large amounts of the plant would have to be consumed. But in small children, even small amounts can cause unpleasant symptoms of poisoning. Possible symptoms of poisoning are:
- Bloody Vomit
- cramps
- Fatigue
- Discomfort
- Visual disturbances
- dizziness
- nausea
Contact with the plant sap can cause skin irritation. If the juice gets into wounds, they can become inflamed. It becomes particularly dangerous when saponins enter the bloodstream. Here the substances dissolve the blood into its components. If a piece of plant has made it down the esophagus, drink plenty of water as a first aid measure. This is how the toxins are diluted. If available, the administration of a cabbage tablet is recommended. This binds the toxins in the stomach. The poison control center is then contacted. He can assess whether an ambulance is necessary.
Elephant's foot: Toxic to cats and dogs?
Even cats and dogs are not spared from the effects of this exotic indoor plant. Therefore, an elephant's foot does not belong in a responsible cat household. If you nibble on the leaves, this can lead to severe irritation of the mucous membranes. These symptoms are also seen in other small animals such as birds and rodents. If you still decide in favor of one of these exotic companions, you will find everything you need hereyou need to know about elephant foot.
If you are looking for non-toxic houseplants for cats, you will definitely find what you are looking for in this overview.