Is Delosperma Cooperi Poisonous to Cats?

What's an Ice Plant?

• This attractive plant has a lot of features that make it a desirable addition to almost any garden. The long, succulent leaves are covered with tiny flakes of what looks like ice, which is how the plant earned its common name. The neon-bright flowers -- which are about 2 inches in diameter -- bloom from early summer until the first frost of autumn. The ice plant grows to a maximum average height of about 6 inches but can spread to a width of 2 feet or more. Cats who love to explore and play in the garden may find this showy plant irresistible.

Caring for the Plant

• Not only is the ice plant attractive, but it is hard to kill -- even if a curious kitty rolls around in it. Hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 10, the ice plant thrives in full sun and dry conditions. Just about the only thing that will kill it is wet conditions, so plant it in well-draining soil.

Cats and Plants

• The ice plant isn't poisonous, but that doesn't mean it is completely danger-free. Cats love to nibble on plants, and even a non-toxic plant has the potential to get stuck in kitty's throat, or cause stomach upset, according to the ASPCA. For that reason, if you suspect your cat has ingested part of the plant, and he seems ill, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Non-Toxic and Unstoppable

• This hardy plant out-competes weeds, is non-toxic and is wonderfully easy to grow -- which actually can be a bad thing. Although it won't hurt your feline friend, the ice plant does have a downside: It naturalizes easily. In fact, the ice plant is classified as an invasive weed in California, according to Washington State University Clark County Extension. For that reason, choose the location for this plant carefully.