Is Wandering Jew Toxic to Cats? A Gardener’s Insight on Pet Safety

As a longtime gardener and houseplant enthusiast, I’ve grown my fair share of lush, trailing plants, and one that always catches the eye is the Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina, Tradescantia fluminensis, and Tradescantia pallida).

With its striking purple, green, and silver foliage, it adds a gorgeous pop of color to any space.

But as much as I love this fast-growing beauty, there’s one thing that cat owners need to be aware of – Wandering Jew plants can be problematic for feline friends.

Is the Wandering Jew Plant Toxic to Cats?

The short answer is yes, Wandering Jew plants are mildly toxic to cats. They’re not considered highly poisonous, meaning they won’t cause life-threatening symptoms if ingested.

However, these plants contain sap that is irritating to a cat’s skin and digestive system, which can lead to discomfort if they decide to nibble on the leaves or rub against the plant.

I’ve seen cases where cats that love to chew on houseplants end up with irritated mouths or upset stomachs after coming into contact with Tradescantia species. While some felines seem to ignore the plant altogether, others may be drawn to its texture, especially if they’re prone to exploring their environment with their teeth.

Symptoms of Wandering Jew Toxicity in Cats

If your cat has been playing with or eating the leaves of a Wandering Jew plant, you might notice some telltale signs of irritation. Some of the most common reactions include:

• Skin irritation
• Mouth and gum irritation
• Drooling
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Scratching or licking excessively

From my experience, most cats recover quickly if they stop interacting with the plant. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, a visit to the vet is always a good idea to ensure your pet is comfortable and safe.

How to Keep Cats Away from Wandering Jew Plants

If you love the look of a Wandering Jew plant but have a curious cat at home, there are ways to keep the two safely apart.

First, consider keeping the plant out of reach. Hanging baskets or high shelves can be great solutions if your cat isn’t much of a climber. However, if you own a particularly adventurous feline (as many cat owners do), you might need additional deterrents.

Another method that has worked well for me is using scents that cats dislike. Citrus peels, diluted vinegar sprays, or even commercially available pet-safe deterrents can make the plant less appealing to your furry friend.

You can also provide alternative plants that are safe and enjoyable for cats, such as cat grass or catnip, to redirect their interest.

Alternative Non-Toxic Plants for Cat Owners

If you’re worried about keeping a Wandering Jew plant in your home but still want beautiful greenery, there are plenty of pet-safe alternatives that are just as stunning. Some of my favorite non-toxic plants that are safe for cats include:

• Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – It has a similar trailing growth habit and is easy to care for. Plus, cats love it, and it won’t harm them if they chew on it.
• Areca palm (Dypsis lutescens) – A tropical-looking houseplant that’s completely safe for pets.
• Calathea – With its vibrant patterned leaves, Calathea is a beautiful pet-safe alternative to Tradescantia.
• Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) – A lush, feathery fern that’s non-toxic and great for indoor air purification.