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Pet owners often seek houseplants that enhance their home’s aesthetic while ensuring the safety of their furry companions. One popular choice is the money tree plant, known for its lush greenery and symbolic promise of good fortune. But a critical question arises: Are money trees safe for cats? This blog post explores the safety of money tree plants (Pachira aquatica) for cats, compares them to other plants like the jade plant, and offers practical tips to keep curious felines safe.

What Is a Money Tree Plant?

The money tree plant, scientifically known as Pachira aquatica, is a tropical beauty prized for its vibrant, glossy green leaves and braided trunk. In the wild, it can soar to heights of 60 feet in USDA plant hardiness zones 10 to 12. However, when grown as a houseplant, it typically reaches a manageable 6 to 8 feet. Outdoors, in home gardens, it may grow into a bushy shrub up to 30 feet tall.

This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist to wet soil, making it relatively easy to care for. Its ornamental appeal, with flexible trunks often braided together, adds a unique touch to any space. For cat owners, though, the plant’s quivering leaves and climbable trunk can be an irresistible attraction for playful pets.

Are Money Trees Toxic to Cats?

Good news for cat owners: according to the ASPCA, the money tree plant (Pachira aquatica) is not toxic to cats if ingested. This makes it a safer choice compared to other houseplants. However, while it won’t cause serious harm, nibbling on the leaves or stems may lead to mild stomach upset in some cats. Symptoms could include vomiting or diarrhea, though these are typically not severe.

The money tree’s long, shiny leaves often quiver in the slightest breeze, making them particularly enticing for inquisitive cats. Additionally, the braided trunk of potted money trees can serve as a tempting climbing structure for adventurous felines. While a curious nibble won’t pose a significant health risk, it’s wise to take precautions to minimize any potential discomfort for your pet.

Tips to Keep Cats Away from Money Trees

To prevent your cat from snacking on or climbing your money tree, consider these practical strategies-

Place the plant in an inaccessible location: Indoors, position the money tree in a room where you can close the door to keep your cat out. Hanging planters or high shelves can also work, provided your cat isn’t an expert jumper.
Use deterrents for outdoor plants: For outdoor money trees, spraying the plant with a bitter-tasting, pet-safe spray can discourage chewing. These sprays are available at most pet stores and are designed to be unappealing to cats.
Provide distractions: Offer your cat alternative toys or scratching posts to redirect their attention from the plant. Catnip toys or climbing structures can satisfy their playful instincts.
Monitor your cat’s behavior: If you catch your cat sampling the money tree and they seem out of sorts (e.g., vomiting or acting lethargic), contact your veterinarian for advice. While the plant is non-toxic, it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

Comparing Money Trees to Jade Plants

While Pachira aquatica is a safe option for cat owners, not all plants referred to as “money trees” share this characteristic. The jade plant (Crassula ovata), also commonly called a money tree, is another popular houseplant believed to bring good fortune. Unfortunately, unlike Pachira aquatica, the jade plant is toxic to cats, according to the ASPCA.

Hardy in USDA zones 11 and 12, jade plants can grow up to 6 feet tall outdoors but typically reach a maximum of 30 inches when grown indoors. They thrive in bright light with some afternoon shade and prefer soil that dries out slightly between waterings. If a cat ingests any part of a jade plant, it could experience serious symptoms such as vomiting, depression, or lack of coordination. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if you suspect your cat has consumed jade plant material.

To avoid confusion, always verify the scientific name of the plant when purchasing a “money tree.” Opt for Pachira aquatica if you have cats, and steer clear of Crassula ovata unless you can ensure your pet cannot access it.

Why Choose a Money Tree for Your Home?

Beyond its pet-safe qualities, the money tree is a desirable houseplant for several reasons-

Symbol of good fortune: In many cultures, the money tree is believed to bring prosperity and luck, making it a popular gift for new homeowners or businesses.
Low maintenance: It adapts well to a range of light conditions (full sun to partial shade) and only requires consistent moisture to thrive.
Aesthetic appeal: The braided trunk and lush foliage add a tropical, elegant vibe to any indoor or outdoor space.

For cat owners, the money tree offers the added benefit of being non-toxic, allowing you to enjoy its beauty without worrying about serious harm to your pet.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats a Money Tree

If you notice your cat has chewed on a money tree, don’t panic. Since the plant is non-toxic, the worst outcome is likely mild stomach upset. However, keep an eye on your cat for signs of discomfort, such as-

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Loss of appetite

If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, contact your veterinarian for guidance. They may recommend monitoring your cat at home or bringing them in for a checkup to rule out other issues. Having your vet’s contact information handy can provide peace of mind in these situations.

Additional Tips for Cat-Safe Houseplants

If you’re a cat owner looking to expand your indoor jungle, consider other non-toxic plants to complement your money tree. Some safe options include-

Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Known for its arching leaves, this plant is non-toxic and easy to grow.
Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): A lush, pet-safe fern that thrives in indirect light.
Areca palm (Dypsis lutescens): A cat-friendly palm that adds a tropical touch to your home.

Always check the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants before introducing a new houseplant to ensure it’s safe for your cat.

Conclusion

The money tree plant (Pachira aquatica) is a safe and stylish addition to homes with cats. While it’s non-toxic according to the ASPCA, it’s still best to prevent your cat from chewing on it to avoid mild stomach upset. By placing the plant in an inaccessible location, using deterrents, or providing distractions, you can enjoy the beauty and symbolism of the money tree without compromising your cat’s well-being. In contrast, steer clear of jade plants (Crassula ovata), as they are toxic to cats and require extra caution.