Calathea 'Freddie' Is Not Toxic To Dogs ๐Ÿถ

Goeppertia coccinna

By Kiersten Rankel

Jun 14, 20243 min read

Ensure your pup's ๐Ÿ• safety and your Calathea 'Freddie' thrives with this vital non-toxic plant care guide. ๐ŸŒฟ

Calathea 'freddie'
  1. Calathea 'Freddie' is dog-safe, but caution is advised.
  2. ๐Ÿถ Mild symptoms if ingested; watch for gastrointestinal upset.
  3. ๐ŸŒฑ Choose pet-friendly plants and keep them out of reach.

Understanding Calathea 'Freddie' Toxicity to Dogs

๐Ÿถ Potential Risks

Calathea 'Freddie', a popular houseplant, is generally not considered toxic to dogs. However, it's always better to err on the side of caution. No specific compounds have been identified in Calathea 'Freddie' that pose a risk to dogs, which is reassuring for pet owners.

๐Ÿšจ Symptoms and Treatment

In the rare event that a dog does ingest Calathea 'Freddie', the symptoms are likely to be mild. Watch for signs of gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If any unusual behavior or symptoms arise, veterinary assistance should be sought as a precaution.

๐Ÿ›‘ What to Do If Ingested

If you catch your dog in the act of munching on Calathea 'Freddie', don't panic. Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and offer fresh water. Observe your pet closely and contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning symptoms. Providing details about the plant can help the vet assess the situation more effectively.

Potted Calathea 'Freddie' plant with healthy green leaves on a table with a colorful tablecloth.

Pet-Safe Practices

๐ŸŒฟ Pet-Friendly Houseplants

Pet owners need not sacrifice style for safety. For a dog-friendly home, consider plants like the spider plant, known for its air-purifying qualities and non-toxic nature. African violets add a pop of color without the danger, while air plants offer a quirky, low-maintenance option. For those with a green thumb, the phalaenopsis orchid or a pilea peperomioides (money tree) could be rewarding, pet-safe choices. Succulents like echeveria are also safe bets, as are certain palms and ferns, such as the parlor palm and boston fern. For a touch of the Mediterranean, an olive tree can thrive in sunny spots and is completely pet-friendly.

๐Ÿšจ Precautionary Measures

To keep your furry friends safe, vigilance is key. Always research before bringing a new plant into your home. Even non-toxic plants can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities. Keep Calathea 'Freddie' and other houseplants out of paws' reach, perhaps on high shelves or in hanging planters. Consider pet-deterrent sprays for added security. Remember, while Calathea 'Freddie' is non-toxic, the fertilizer used can be harmful. Lastly, stay informed about plants that are dangerous to pets, such as lilies and tulip bulbs, and ensure they are not part of your indoor jungle.

Calathea 'Freddie' plant in a pot on a table with striped leaves.

General Care for Calathea 'Freddie'

๐Ÿ’ก Light and Water Requirements

Calathea 'Freddie' is a light lover but not too much; think bright, indirect sunlight for 4 to 6 hours a day. Direct rays? No thanks, they're leaf burners. When it comes to watering, consistency is key. Keep the soil moist, but not like a swamp. The top inch should dry out before the next watering rendezvous. And let's not drown the poor thingโ€”drainage holes are your friend.

๐Ÿ’ง Humidity and Temperature

Humidity is to Calathea 'Freddie' what a good Wi-Fi signal is to streamingโ€”absolutely necessary. Aim for high humidity; misting, pebble trays, or a humidifier can get you there. Temperature-wise, keep it cozy between 65ยฐ to 85ยฐ Fahrenheit. Anything below 60ยฐ is a cold shoulder it won't appreciate.

๐ŸŒฑ Soil and Fertilization

Freddie's picky about its bedโ€”light, well-draining potting mix is the way to go. As for food, a weak nitrogen-rich fertilizer monthly during spring and summer will do. Think of it as a light snack rather than a feast to keep it from getting bloated. And remember, tap water's a no-go; it's like junk food for plants. Use rain or distilled water to avoid those unsightly brown tips.

Calathea 'Freddie' plant with striped leaves in a pot, soil visible.

Ensure your Calathea 'Freddie' and pup coexist in harmony ๐Ÿถ, with Greg's precise watering reminders and pet-safe plant care tips.



You Might Also Want to Know...

Are Calathea plants toxic to pets?

No, Calathea plants are non-toxic to pets.

What kind of lighting do Calathea plants prefer?

Calathea plants prefer bright indirect light and should not be exposed to direct sunlight.

Do Calathea plants require high humidity?

While Calathea plants prefer higher humidity levels, they can tolerate lower humidity as well.

How often should I water my Calathea plants?

You should water your Calathea plants when the top third of the soil is dry.

What type of water should I use to water my Calathea plants?

It is best to use filtered or distilled water to avoid any potential issues caused by tap water.

Can Calathea plants die back to the soil?

Yes, Calathea plants can die back to the soil, especially during the winter or if they go dormant.

How often should I fertilize my Calathea plants?

During the growing season, Calathea plants should be fertilized once a month with a liquid fertilizer.

What are some common care mistakes for Calathea plants?

Some common care mistakes for Calathea plants include improper lighting, over or under-watering, and using tap water instead of filtered or distilled water.

Can Calathea plants tolerate low light conditions?

Calathea plants are low light tolerant, but they still require bright indirect light to thrive.

Are Calathea plants fast growers?

Yes, Calathea plants are known for their fast growth, especially during the growing season.