Roses are red, violets are blue, but if you bite a thorn, it can hurt you. Pets and flowers both are something that rules over every heart. Pets like cats tend to bite or chew on most things, including plants.
Fortunately, most plants that belong to the Rosa genus are not considered toxic for cats. Initially, we can have some confusion regarding this, so here we are with a detailed discussion on whether cats can eat rose leaves or not.
Can cats eat rose leaves?
Cats can eat rose leaves, and it does not create any severe health conditions rather than gastrointestinal problems. If a large number of leaves are ingested. You may notice a bowel obstruction as a result. But, unfortunately, they can be hurt by the thorns of the plant.
Cats try to chew or bite all sorts of plants. But, in the case of rose plants, it’s a bit scary as the thorns can cause trauma on the paws and mouth. However, the consumption doesn’t usually cause any serious poisoning.
Your cat may face some issues like diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, drooling, inappetence, etc.
As soon as you notice any of these symptoms, the best thing to do would be to see a veterinarian. You might need to take intensive care of your cat.
Rose bush leaves:
More than 150 species of roses are available. They vary in color, smell, and size. And no plant of this genus is considered harmful for your cat. So, in case your cat nibbles on the colorful petals or thornless bush, she should be fine.
Cats do eat rose bush leaves. However, no part of the plant is poisonous, but the sharp thorns on the plant’s branches can be an issue.
If your cat somehow has injured herself on the thorns, it’s suggested to make an appointment with your veterinarian.
So, it’s suitable if you avoid keeping these thorny plants away from your cat. Fortunately, nowadays, thorn removed flowers are popular. Once you get there, you and the cat can enjoy the flowers safely.
Before you plan to buy new plants, try to check if they are toxic to your cat. However, if you still plan to get those plants, it is better to place them where your cat cannot reach them.
Usually, it is best to avoid bringing these to your place to ensure complete safety.
Are rose leaves poisonous to cats? Is it bad for cats to eat roses?
Rose leaves are not poisonous to cats, and neither is it bad for cats to eat roses. Apart from that, in the want of eating rose leaves, the cats can hurt themselves on the thorns. Other than that, there will be no severe health issues caused.
Cats can eat roses. They are attracted to the flower due to the smell and colors. Cats tend to try new things, including chomping on random things.
The sweet smell of the roses attracts them, and as a result, they chew it, especially if they had tried it before and liked the taste.
Although, when it comes to eating the leaves or branches, things are slightly different. As the branches are filled with thorns, there’s always a chance that they can get hurt. The thorns can scratch them and sometimes give them an upset stomach.
Can cats get sick from rose leaves?
Cats can get sick from rose leaves. Even though the plant itself is not poisonous, it can still end up causing gastrointestinal problems and diarrhea.
If you have an outdoor cat, it’s better to play it safe and keep the cat away from the garden. You can use a fence or keep the cats indoors completely.
Other than that, you can remove the thorns from the cut roses before placing them inside the vase.
If the roses are store-bought, they can contain some toxic elements that can cause some issues. As most plants are sprayed with chemical pesticides, they can be a threat to your cats.
If symptoms like Vomiting, Tremors, Lethargy, Seizures are visible, then contact your vet as soon as possible. But if there is no usage of any chemical pesticides, then things are just fine. But, you will still need to look out for the thorns.
What happens if cats eat rose leaves?
If your cat eats an immense amount of rose leaves, in the worst cases, she will end up having a bowel problem.
Rather than a bowel problem, your cat can also reveal some symptoms of rose allergy. Like humans, cats can also be prone to allergies.
Some particular types of roses carry some toxins and allergens that can cause allergies to your cat. An allergic reaction can affect the immune system.
As mild symptoms that can be seen when your cat consumes rose leaves include vomiting, stomach ache, refusal to eat, etc., and in case of severe allergic reactions, the symptoms may include weakness, hypersalivation, depression, etc.
The positive thing is that typical roses do not cause severe allergic issues. To deter your cats from going near the rose plants, it’s best to keep them separated.
Why does my cat eat rose leaves?
Cats are carnivorous. Cats usually eat rose leaves due to the attractive smell and colorful petals. But at times, cats can munch on leaves out of boredom or need extra fiber.
Here are a few basic reasons why cats eat rose leaves.
Due to the smell:
The sweet smell of roses usually attracts cats to munch on them. As roses smell amazing, they tend to eat the leaves due to their different taste. Cats sometimes munch on leaves out of curiosity to discover the taste of new things.
Sometimes, they can eat rose leaves just in the sense of playing or soothing the teeth if your cat is in a teething phase.
Attraction to leaves due to fluttering with air:
Anything moving usually catches the attention of cats. They have a tendency to prey or play with things that move. Leaves tend to move with air almost all day long. Due to this, your cat might want to eat rose leaves.
A cat can also eat rose leaves or the petals as soon as it realizes it grabs your attention. But, it’s always good to remember that if your cat consumes rose leaves, she will end up having an upset stomach.
Will eating rose petals hurt my cat?
Consuming rose petals will not hurt your cat. Roses are considered non-toxic plants, so eating rose petals will not cause any severe health condition in your cat. So, you do not have to worry if your cat is munching on rose petals.
The only thing you need to be worried about is the sharp thorns. In want of munching the petals, your cat can get scratched by the thorns. There is also a high risk of causing trauma to the mouth, paws, and other body parts.
Cats usually eat roses or other flowers as they contain an intense smell. Other than roses, there are flowers cats are attracted to. Some of them may be proven toxic for your cat.
Therefore, before you get a new flowering plant, do your research to make sure it’s safe for your cat.
How do I stop my cat from eating my rose leaves?
Stopping your cat from eating your rose leaves might look like a tough job, but it is not that hard.
Here are a few things you can do to stop your cat from eating rose leaves.
Making the plants smell bad for your cat:
Cats are technically sensitive to smell. The best way to keep your cats from eating your plant leaves is to smell them unappetizing.
If you want to do it naturally, you can use oil that smells like citrus. Or you could simply use lemon peel. You can also sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper around the plant.
Spraying the leaves:
It’s quite easy to find sprays that may help you keep your cat away from rose leaves. If you want a natural alternative, you can use 1 part vinegar and 3 parts of water and spray them directly on the leaves.
This should do the job, and your cat won’t get tempted towards the leaves.
By placing the plants strategically:
The best place to keep your rose plants is somewhere your cat cannot reach them. Placing the plants inaccessible is the best way to avoid any issue. You can try hanging them in baskets if your cat is a great jumper.
Final Thoughts
Cats can eat both rose and rose leaves. The scary part comes in when the thorny branches get included. Along with petals, cats try to eat leaves of the rose plant. However, it does not cause any serious health conditions. It can still cause gastrointestinal problems or trauma to the mouth and paws.