As a pet owner, ensuring your furry friend’s safety and wellbeing should be a top priority. While there are many obvious hazards to pets like chemicals or electrical cords, houseplants are often an overlooked danger. Some indoor plants contain compounds that can be toxic when ingested by dogs or cats. The Balfour Aralia is one such plant that merits extra caution around pets.
What is a Balfour Aralia Plant?
The Balfour Aralia, also known as the Dinner Plate Aralia, is a popular houseplant native to India and Southeast Asia. It features large, glossy oval-shaped leaves that can grow up to two feet long. When fully matured, the Balfour Aralia can reach heights over six feet tall, making it an excellent accent or floor plant.
With its tropical appeal and easy care requirements, it’s no wonder the Balfour Aralia is a mainstay in many homes. However, pet owners need to take proper precautions with this plant.
Is the Balfour Aralia Toxic to Pets?
While many sites list the Balfour Aralia as toxic for dogs and cats, newer research indicates this may not be accurate. Unlike other Aralia species, the Balfour Aralia does not contain saponins or calcium oxalate crystals – compounds responsible for toxicity in pets.
However the Balfour Aralia may still pose some risks. The leaves and stems contain insoluble oxalates that could potentially cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Dogs or cats that chew or eat the plant may experience vomiting or diarrhea.
Overall the Balfour Aralia is significantly less dangerous than other household plants. But it’s still smart to take precautions with pets. Monitor them closely if any parts are ingested to ensure no adverse effects.
Signs of a Pet Ingesting Balfour Aralia
If your dog or cat did ingest part of a Balfour Aralia plant, watch for these symptoms:
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
If you observe any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian as a precaution. Bring a sample of the plant if possible to identify it.
Safety Tips for Pet Owners with Balfour Aralias
While the Balfour Aralia is likely safer than other household plants, it’s smart to be cautious with any indoor vegetation around pets. Here are some tips to ensure safe cohabitation:
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Keep out of reach: Place Balfour Aralias on high shelves or plant stands beyond your pet’s grasp. Use hanging planters or wall mounts to elevate them.
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Use barriers: Insert the pot inside a larger basket or surround the base with décor items to block access. Pets may be less tempted to chew on blocked plants.
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Train your pet: Reinforce “leave it” commands around the Balfour Aralia and reward them for not touching. Redirect their attention to appropriate chew toys instead.
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Go slow: Gradually introduce the Balfour Aralia and monitor your pet’s interactions. Remove it immediately if they try ingesting.
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Consider pet-safe options: If you’re very concerned, opt for unambiguously pet-friendly choices like spider plants, ponytail palms or orchids.
Proper training, barriers, and supervision are key to ensuring pet safety around any indoor vegetation. But the Balfour Aralia appears less risky than many other species if ingested. With common sense precautions, both your pets and plants can thrive within your home.
What to Do if a Pet Ingests Balfour Aralia
If your pet did manage to ingest part of a Balfour Aralia, remain calm but take action:
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Identify: Confirm it was definitely a Balfour Aralia ingested and not another more toxic plant. Take a photo or sample to your vet if unsure.
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Remove: Gently wipe your pet’s mouth to remove any remaining plant debris. Avoid inducing vomiting unless your vet advises it.
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Call your vet: Contact your veterinarian and describe the situation for guidance. They’ll advise you on any necessary treatment.
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Monitor: Watch for any symptoms of gastrointestinal upset over the next 24 hours. Notify your vet immediately if you observe vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or other concerning signs.
With quick response and veterinary guidance, most pets suffer only minor effects from ingesting small amounts of Balfour Aralia. But do not hesitate to contact your vet or pet poison control if you have any concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other plants are poisonous to pets?
Some particularly toxic plants for dogs and cats include sago palms, lilies, azaleas, oleanders, and tulips. Certain houseplants like philodendrons, ZZ plants, snake plants and pothos can also be very dangerous. Always research a plant’s safety before bringing it home.
Are Aralias poisonous to humans?
No, Aralias are not known to be toxic to humans. However, containing insoluble oxalates, they could potentially cause mild irritation in those with sensitivities.
Can Balfour Aralias be grown outdoors?
Yes! In warm climates, Balfour Aralias thrive outdoors year-round. They require minimal care beyond weekly watering and some fertilization during the growing season.
What’s the best way to introduce a new plant with pets?
Go slow with new plants. Keep them isolated or blocked off from pets at first. Closely supervise all initial interactions, correcting any interest in chewing or ingesting. This allows you to gauge your pet’s curiosity and train appropriate behavior.
Should I get rid of my Balfour Aralia if I have pets?
Not necessarily. With proper precautions and training, many pets coexist safely with Balfour Aralias. But use your best judgment based on your pet’s personality and plant interest. When in doubt, err on the side of caution by opting for unambiguously pet-safe choices.
The Takeaway on Balfour Aralias and Pet Safety
While long considered toxic, the latest research indicates Balfour Aralias are far less dangerous to dogs and cats than other household plants if ingested. But it’s still smart to take precautions by keeping the plant out of reach, using barriers, training your pet, and introducing the plant slowly. Monitor for any gastrointestinal symptoms if your pet manages to ingest any part of the plant and consult your vet for guidance. With sensible safety measures, you can confidently enjoy the beauty of a Balfour Aralia within your home alongside your furry companions.
The Straight Scoop on Balfour Aralia and Your Feline Friends
Delving into why Balfour Aralia is a non-issue for your cats health. Unlike its cousin, the Fabian Aralia, Balfour Aralia doesnt pack the same toxic punch.
Normal Cat Behaviors vs. Concerns
Cats will be cats, which means the occasional nibble on a leaf is par for the course. Keep an eye out for excessive chewing or a sudden shift in behavior, though. These could signal something unrelated to plant toxicity, like a dental issue or boredom. If your cats acting more like a sleepy sloth than its usual ninja self, or if the litter box tells a tale of tummy woes, its time for a vet chat. Not because of the Balfour Aralia, but because cats are great at hiding what ails them.