Is Your Cat Going to Get Into Trouble With the Grevillea?

If you’re a cat owner, you know that cats love to explore and get into anything they can. Unfortunately, this can mean getting into trouble by snacking on some of your houseplants. But if you’re an Aussie who loves native plants, it gets even more complicated - are the Australian native plants toxic to cats? Let's explore.

Australian native plants are beautiful, drought-tolerant options for gardeners looking to add some local flair to their space. However, as any cat owner will know, they also come with one big caveat – cats love them! It is important to remember that many Australian native plants contain toxins or irritants so it is crucial that pet owners research which species are safe before introducing them into the home.

So which Australian natives should you avoid if you have a curious feline in your midst? The good news is that many of Australia’s popular natives such as Banksia and Grevillea are considered non-toxic to cats. However, there are some exceptions such as Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos spp.) and Flannel Flower (Actinotus helianthi) which can cause irritation if ingested. Additionally, some species like Bottlebrush (Callistemon spp.), Waratah (Telopea speciosissima) and Gymea Lily (Doryanthes excelsa) contain saponins - compounds found in many other plant species - which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.

It is important to note that there are always variations between individual cats and their reactions to different plants - what may be harmless for one could be dangerous for another. It is also worth noting that certain plant parts may be more dangerous than others; for example, the berries of some species may be toxic while the leaves are not. As a general rule of thumb, if you’re unsure about any particular plant it is best not to take any risks and keep it away from your pet altogether! 

If you're looking to enliven your space with some Australian native plants, make sure to do the research - no matter how cute they may look. Banksia and Grevillea? No problem. But steer clear of things like Kangaroo Paw or Flannel Flower as these can be dangerous for cats! When it comes time to train Fido away from nibbling on your foliage, pepper in vet advice plus natural deterrents like diluted lemon juice or apple cider vinegar; that should have him staying outta trouble (and off the greenery) quicker than a kangaroo hops across Outback!!