Is hoya toxic to cats?
Hoya (wax plant) is non-toxic to cats.
What is hoya?
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Botanical name: Hoya spp.
- Common names: Wax plant, Waxflower, Porcelain flower, Hindu rope plant
- Toxicity: Non-toxic to cats
- Toxic parts: None
- Severity: –
- Toxic principle: –
Hoya is a genus of 200-300 evergreen epiphyte vines native to Asia and Australia. Its common name Wax Plant is due to its thick waxy leaves. The fragrant porcelain-like flowers grow in star-shaped clusters known as an umbel.
Growing methods include indoor plants in pots, outside the plant can climb up trellis or trees.
Common species
- Hoya carnosa
- Hoya Kerrii
- Hoya brevialata
- Hoya multiflora
- Hoya Australis
Related content: Plants non-toxic to cats Flowers non-toxic to cats
Care
Hoyas are easy to care for plant with average water needs and can be sensitive to over-watering. They prefer sandy well-drained soil and bright indirect light. Pests include scale insects, mealybugs and red spider mites. Fertilise every 1-2 during spring and summer.
Safety
While the hoya may be non-toxic to cats, fertilisers and pest control used on or around the plant may be potentially toxic. Ingestion of large volumes of hoya can potentially lead to a gastrointestinal obstruction but most cats seem to favour plants with strappy leaves and should leave hoya alone. If you do have a cat who is interested in eating the plant, consider moving it to another location the cat cannot access and bring in some cat-friendly plants such as catnip or cat grass.
Frequently asked questions
Is hoya a succulent?
Hoya is a climbing vine and not a succulent, although its thick and fleshy leaves are similar to those of succulents.
Can Hoya grow indoors?
Yes, Hoya is a common houseplant.
When does Hoya bloom?
Hoya blooms from spring to late summer.
