Cacti can be great friends to humans, or the complete opposite as well. It all depends on the type of cactus you own or go near. For this reason, it's essential to know the different types of cacti that are harmless to your environment (including pets), and the ones to stay away from. This is a compilation of five poisonous cacti to keep away from children and pets hurriedly.
These Are 5 Poisonous Cacti to Keep Out of Children and Pet Reach
Cacti have several poisonous species and you'll want to avoid them at all costs because they can really endanger your children's and pets' lives. It's always better to be safe than sorry. These are the five poisonous cacti to keep away from your loved ones asap.
1. Prickly Pear Cactus
The known prickly pear cactus, also called "Opuntia", is a member of the cacti family Cactaceae. There are different paddle-shaped parts on this cactus, and while it may produce fruit that can be eaten, it is very poisonous for children and pets.
This plant might result in bloating, diarrhea, and nausea. Effects, however, vary depending on the person or pet. It might also result in constipation if ingested in excess. This plant's spines can be harmful to humans and animals alike, reason why it's one of the five cacti you should stay away from.
2. Peyote Cactus
The Cactaceae family of cacti also includes the little peyote cactus. Native to Mexico and Texas, this cactus is considered a succulent that grows slowly and lacks spines which don't seem to make it dangerous... But hold on!
If ingested, this cactus possesses psychedelic properties that may be very harmful. Effects from this plant start to appear two hours after intake. This is one of the eight cacti to keep away from children and pets for sure!
3. San Pedro Cactus
Screams danger from where you see it and you're about to know why. The San Pedro cactus is considered one of the five most poisonous cacti for children and pets because it is a very strong hallucinogen. Due to the mescaline content (a forbidden substance in many nations), a psychedelic hallucinogen, which is dangerously high in this cactus, it is a recognized toxic plant.
4. Cholla Cactus
The cactus species Cylindropuntia also referred to as the cholla cactus, joins the list of five poisonous cacti to keep away from the reach of children and pets. Depending on the soil's characteristics, this cactus can reach a variety of different heights.
Because it shoots needles, this cactus should be completely avoided. If spiked with one of their needles, both humans and animals may experience abdominal issues due to the spines' toxic nature, which contains poison.
5. Barrel Cactus
To end the interesting selection of poisonous cacti for children and pets we have the barrel cactus. Echinocactus grusonii, also called the barrel cactus, has a distinctive barrel shape and long spines that characterize its appearance. Although the barrel cactus brings out its red blooms in the warmer months, don't let it fool you with its beauty.
A barrel cactus has toxic sap, meaning it has a high potential of irritating the skin. Children and animals may also be harmed by the plant's spines.
Many cacti lovers may be unaware of several poisonous factors, which is why it's important to keep this list in mind. Don't forget that the prickly pear cactus, peyote cactus, San Pedro cactus, cholla cactus, and barrel cactus are five poisonous cacti to keep away from children and pets.
