Cat ate spider plant leaves, will they grow back?

Discussion in 'Houseplants' started by Lauren Houk, Mar 3, 2019.

  1. Lauren Houk

    Lauren Houk New Seed

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    Hello, I have a spider plant that i purchased about a week ago. My cat had taken a liking to it while i was at work and chewed off all the leaves. Is there any chance that the leaves will grow back? It's looking pretty rough right now.
     
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  3. Lauren Houk

    Lauren Houk New Seed

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    Picture of the carnage
     

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  4. eileen

    eileen Resident Taxonomist Staff Member Moderator Plants Contributor

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    Lauren I think your Spider plant will be fine. As long as the roots are intact it should regrow.

    I'd be a little concerned however about you cat. "Spider plants contain chemical compounds that are said to be related to opium. While considered non toxic, these compounds can still result in an upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea. For this reason, it is recommended that you keep cats away from the plants to avoid any spider plant toxicity, regardless of its mild effects. Like people, all cats are different and what affects one mildly may affect another quite differently."
    Taken from Gardening know how

    Hopefully your cat will be OK but I thought it best to give you the heads up just in case it shows any signs of an upset stomach.
    :fingerscrossed: Both cat and plant will be fine. Maybe you could put the plant into a hanging basket out of reach of your pet so that both remain happy and healthy.
     
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  5. Ronni

    Ronni Hardy Maple

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    Related to what Eileen said, wondering if your cat high right now? :eek:

    One of my dogs one time ate my spider plant right down to the nubs. Separate plant, I had it outside and a deer did the same thing. Both came back strong.
     
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  6. tindi

    tindi New Seed

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    I think it will re sprout but will take a bit. Can you get a plant shelf that is narrow so your cat can't get to it or a plant hanger?
     
  7. AAnightowl

    AAnightowl Young Pine

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    To keep cats and pets out of house plants, you can sprinkle black pepper on the soil around your houseplants. It doesn't take more than a few tries to discourage them from invading houseplants--and keeping them from using your plants as a litter box.

    Some houseplants are toxic and maybe even poisonous to pets. Dumbcane is one you should not let them get at.

    My cats have been nibbling my spider plants all winter.. but I did not know it was habit forming. They will get put outdoors in early May.
     
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  8. Sarah6277

    Sarah6277 New Seed

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    did your spider plant grow back? my cat just did the same thing to my baby spider and i cant seem to find anything on this topic.
     
  9. Odif

    Odif Young Pine

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    Your spider plant will normally grow back healthy and strong.
     

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