If you have bird pets at home, you may wonder whether it is safe to keep them close to your succulents. And we do not speak about pets only–sure enough the last thing you want to achieve with your succulent growing is poisoning some random bird who eats a fruit or flower or leaf of one of your succulent plants. So, what is true and what is a myth? Let me start with facts:
Most succulents are not poisonous to birds. But there are some succulent varieties that could possibly harm bird pets. As a pet and succulent lover, you need to make sure that you keep everything & everybody safe. Let me share with you a list of plants that are poisonous to bird pets. But before you scare out (having one of those plants in your home, close to the bird cage), remember that animals are more intelligent than we think. They won’t eat things that aren’t good for them, unless they are really hungry or experience some other issues. Anyway, let’s proceed to the list.
Succulents and other plants potentially poisonous to birds
- Amaryllis – The plant itself and its bulb are toxic to birds. Ingesting the flowers and its bulb can result in vomiting and diarrhea.
- Daffodil – It is very popular and also called a “cheery flower”. The flowers of Daffodil containing a chemical called lycorine which is very toxic and worse, it can be deadly depending on the amount ingested by a bird or other animal. It can cause seizures in birds and can cause severe gastrointestinal issues.
- Holly – This plant is a great addition for holiday decorations but its leaves and berries are poisonous to birds. They might have mistaken it as an edible berry due to its deceiving look. Plants that have been living in a wild country for generations won’t make such a mistake, but caged pets may lack some of the instincts they would normally have in the wild…
- Ivy-Green – This plant is also known as English Ivy. One of the popular decorative plants but can be deadly to any birds. It can cause skin irritation, convulsions, and gastrointestinal issues.
- Mistletoe – Mistletoe is another poisonous plant to birds (and not only to them). All of its parts can cause issues, including diarrhea, vomiting, irregular heart rate, and irregular breathing. Birds may collapse if they ingested it.
- Morning Glory -This beautiful flower can be a threat to your bird’s health. You should be careful if you acquire morning glory seeds for planting because it contains a dangerous chemical similar to LSD. Sure, the “glory” in its name can be interpreted in many ways, and maybe you may have some fun with this plant. But make sure to not involve birds in such experiments.
- Philodendron – This common houseplant can add to the aesthetic value of your home. Unfortunately, it is not safe for birds. All of its parts can cause severe irritation to a bird’s mouth, vomiting, and difficulty in swallowing.
- Poinsettia – These beautiful flowers are usually the centerpiece when holidays are just around the corner. However, the poinsettia is very poisonous to birds. It can cause gastrointestinal issues, skin irritation, and other serious health issues for birds, cats, tortoises, and any other pets you keep at home.
- Shamrock – You might be thinking that this plant may bring luck to your home. Sure it can, but for your birds it can be the last thing they ever ear. These plants are very toxic to birds as well as to dogs, cats, and other animals. It can cause excessive salivation, tremors, and other serious health issues, which may (especially in older or weakened animals) result even in death.
Succulents and other plants completely safe for birds
Luckily as with everything else in life, when there is something harmful, there is also something helpful, or at least neutral. On the following list you will see some succulents and other plants you can have indoor without bringing a threat to your birds. These plants are completely safe for birds.
- Spider Plant – It is both easy to grow and safe for birds. A spider plant in a hanging basket that can be the perfect decoration indoors.
- Impatiens – If you’re into colorful plants, then you’re in luck. Impatiens are colorful and they are completely safe plants for birds.
- Boston Fern – These lush, hardy plants can offer a natural touch as home decor. There’s no need to worry if you have birds in your home, since ingesting Boston fern won’t cause them any harm.
- Aloe Vera – Aloe is safe and non-toxic and it also has medicinal qualities that can help both sick birds and people. It’s low maintenance and there’s no wonder that it has been a popular houseplant for many years, and will be as long as humankind exists.
- African Violet – These flowers are completely safe plants for parrots and other pet birds. It is known to flower several times a year. Add one of these little jewels to your home for an additional pop of color.
- Hen and Chicks – Hen and Chicks is a bird-safe succulent plant that thrives in direct sunlight. Make sure you have a sunny window for it because this unique little succulent always craves sunlight.
- Orchids – These plants are known for their beautiful blossoms. They are an excellent choice for bird owners who want to keep plants indoors. Orchids are safe for birds.
Most plants that can be found in our home will not harm our pets as long as not ingested. But of course, there are still a few succulents that can be harmful to our dogs, cats, birds, and any kind of pet that we have at home.
If you suspect that your pet has eaten one of these poisonous plants, call your veterinarian immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, because they know what to do with your pets. Our website (and similar websites) are for information-purposes only.
Final thoughts
Having indoor succulent plants is a good thing because it adds some life, color, and joy to your home. However, we must be careful due to the fact that not all succulent plants (or plants in general) are safe for birds. Do some research before you buy new plants, and always make sure that they are safe for your pets, children, and eventually also for yourself…
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