Actress Pamela Anderson is a well-known animal lover and activist. Like many people, Ms. Anderson may struggle with keeping houseplants safe from pets. In fact, cats are notorious plant nibblers and soil diggers. But, with some careful plant selection, placement, and creativity, you can keep your cat from ruining your plants, and keep your cat safe from potentially harmful plant varieties.
First and foremost, you'll want to make certain you're keeping your pets safe from plants that are poisonous or that may cause stomach or skin irritations. There are many common varieties of plants that may make your cat sick, or may even cause death. Among those common plants are dieffenbachia, philodendron, and lilies. Some varieties of ivies and yews may also be harmful as well as the bulbs of tulips, daffodils, and amaryllis. Some people suggest testing your plants for toxicity by breaking open the stem or leaf and rubbing some of the plant's juices on your skin. Then, watch for reactions. If you develop a rash or other irritation, the plant is probably not safe for your pet. While this may work, the best advice is really to check with your veterinarian. Your florist can also help you select pet-safe plants.
If your cat likes to nibble on your plants, try providing him with his own potted grasses to chew. You can purchase seed mixes specifically combined for cat "salads." These are available through most pet supply stores, and some florists and greenhouses carry them, too. Encourage your cat to gnaw on those plants and discourage him from touching yours. To keep him away from yours, you can spray them with substances that won't harm the plant, but that taste bad to your cat. These deterrent sprays include bitter apple and other commercially available substances. You can also squirt the cat with water from a spray bottle when he approaches your plants.
If your cat is a digger, try placing a layer of decorative rock on top of the soil in the pot. If the rocks alone don't work, you can purchase weed fabric to place under the rock. There are also less attractive methods to keep your cat from digging in the pot, such as aluminum foil, waxed paper, or sticky strips that are most often used to keep cats from scratching furniture. However, since those methods will take away from the look of your plant, I recommend first trying the rock and weed fabric.
Many people with cats love the touch of color houseplants bring to a room, but may avoid owning them simply because of the hassle involved in keeping the cat from destroying them or scattering dirt everywhere. However, even pet lovers like Pamela Anderson can keep plants-and pets-safe. Your florist may also have some tried and true tips to keep your plants looking great despite your pet's efforts.
Copyright: Copyright © 2006-2008 Wesley Berry, AAF
About the Author:| Wesley Berry is member of the American Academy of Floriculture (AAF) and President of Wesley Berry Flowers, a successful multi-million dollar floral business that was established in 1946. He is also the developer of Localnewsdelivery.com a website that delivers local news to over 40,000 communities across the country. Recently he also launched a website providing information about various places of worship throughout the United States. Visit Wesley Berry Flowers on the web at www.800wesleys.com.
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