Is Hoya Toxic to Cats?

Last Updated on March 17, 2021 by Julia Wilson

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.