Asters are generally not poisonous to cats. Most species of asters are safe and non-toxic to cats, although an exception is woody aster, which can accumulate selenium from the soil and may cause stomach upset or toxicity if consumed in high amounts. Cats typically avoid asters due to their rough texture, so ingestion is rare and not usually harmful. Regular asters used in gardens are safe for cats, but woody asters should be avoided to prevent potential selenium poisoning.
Details on Asters and Cats
- Most asters are non-toxic and safe for cats to be around or even nibble on without causing serious harm.
- Woody aster (Xylorrhiza glabriuscula) can absorb selenium, which is toxic and potentially dangerous, causing symptoms like stomach upset and severe poisoning if eaten in large quantities.
- Cats tend not to consume asters because of the unpleasant texture of the stems and leaves.
- Even though most asters are safe, any plant ingestion in large amounts can cause minor stomach discomfort.
Recommendations for Cat Owners
- It's best to avoid planting woody asters in areas accessible to cats.
- Regular asters are generally safe to include in pet-friendly gardens.
- If a cat shows signs of poisoning or unusual symptoms after contact with any plant, veterinary advice should be sought promptly.
This guidance is corroborated by multiple veterinary and plant safety sources including ASPCA and expert plant toxicology resources.