Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae.This plant blooms bright yellow flowers and is kept as an indoor plant as cut flowers in many households. There are more than 100 species of sunflowers.Cats are curious animals and like to sniff and nibble on any indoor plants and flowers. Therefore, knowing which plants are poisonous to cats and which plants are not, is extremely crucial. Sunflowers bear the age-old myth that they are toxic to cats. However, in reality, they are not toxic to cats or dogs and even horses. Sunflowers are bright yellow flowers and are beautiful to look at. For this reason, many people tend to have this beautiful plant in their homes. Other flowering plants are roses, daisies, and lilies. Here’s a guide to knowing which plants should not be kept at home, especially when there is a pet nearby.If you enjoyed this article, why not also read about Siberian cat facts and are snake plants toxic to cats? Here on Kidadl.Why are sunflowers non-toxic to cats?Sunflowers are kept as a garden plant in many homes. Other than their beautiful features, they have several benefits as well. Sunflower seeds, for example, are eaten by many people, roasted or straight from the plant itself. Sunflower seeds can also be used to make sunflower oil, a healthy oil, used as an alternative for cooking.The common myth is that sunflowers are toxic to cats and dogs. However, the truth is that they are not at all poisonous to humans and pets alike. Cats, because of their inquisitive nature, can often be seen chewing on the leaves of any indoor plant. Although they are not life-threatening, in some cases, if parts of this plant are ingested by a feline, it can cause minor stomach aches. So, if your cat eats sunflower, it might upset its stomach. In such a case, the veterinarian should be called immediately for treatment.What other flowers are non-toxic to cats?Sunflowers are cat-friendly and will not cause cats any harm. They are safe for consumption if your cat chooses to eat them.Other types of flowering plants that are common in many households include, roses, orchids, freesia, and snapdragons, among many others. Roses are especially extremely beautiful and can brighten up your garden. They come in a variety of colors and are considered to be a symbol of affection and friendship. All of these flowering plants do not cause any harm to a cat and can be kept in any home garden.How to stop my cat from eating my flowers?Although many plants like roses, orchids, and sunflowers are non-toxic to cats, they can still cause minor health problems in your cat, if ingested.A cat is mainly carnivorous by nature, however, sometimes, it can be seen chomping down on the grass to help its digestive system. This is the same reason why a house cat will be drawn towards any indoor plant. Keeping cat grass in your home can be an effective way to stop your cat from eating the plants or flowers. Cat grass is rich in fiber, and vitamins and can be bought in a container, from any nearby pet store. The other way of preventing your cats from eating the leaves of your plant is by spraying chili powder on the plant itself. This will deter the cat from going near it, let alone eating it.Are all flowers safe for cats?Keeping flowers at home for decoration has been a sort of ritual for many people. However, one needs to know which flowers are poisonous, and which are not safe, especially when there is a pet nearby. Sunflowers, for example, are not at all poisonous to cats. Many people enjoy the taste of sunflower seeds and the same can also be used to make sunflower oil. However, not all flowers are safe.Some of the flowering plants that are poisonous for animals are lilies, daisy tulips, dahlias, and hyacinths. A cat should not eat any of these plants and if caught eating, must immediately be taken to the vet. While a few parts of a plant may be unsafe for a cat, in the case of lilies, all parts, including the stem, petals, and buds are extremely toxic to cats. If a cat eats this plant, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures. Having a vase full of different types of flowers at home, with a pet around, is not exactly safe for them.Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly facts for everyone to enjoy! If you liked our suggestions for let’s know the truth: are sunflowers poisonous to cats? Or are they non-toxic? Then why not take a look at what’s the debate, are strawberries a fruit? Or are they vegetables? Or are silverfish bad? And know how to prevent silverfish infestation.
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae.
