I grew up in the countryside where nature was all that surrounds me. Plants were everywhere whether indoors or outdoors. Their number keeps increasing greatly and snake plant was one of them.
Now that I’m all grown, I can’t live in an environment without plants and greens. Nature became a huge part of my life. Plants need to be around me or I’d choke.
Another thing I grew up loving is pets. I have two dogs, a cat, one cockatiel, and two budgies. I learned that not all plants are safe for pets. Some can be dangerous and deadly if your pet chews on them. Consequently, before I get a plant in my home, I have to make sure it is not poisonous.
Snake plant is a very common house plant. It is beautiful and looks amazing for decoration. It is one of the plants which is known to bring positive energy to the household.
Many pet owners tend to purchase this plant without any considerations. They think that since it’s a popular plant it means it is safe and is okay to have it around. And of course, snake plant is not toxic to all pets.
Its scientific name is Sansevieria or Dracaena Trifasciata. Another popular name for it is Tiger Tail. It is a member of the genus Sansevieria of the Agavaceae family which is not on the list of poisonous plants. However, Agavaceae contains oxalic acid.
Oxalic acid is found in spinach that alienates the absorption of calcium. I don’t know how much exactly it is contained in Sansevieria.
Are Snake Plants Poisonous to Cockatiels
Cockatiels are energetic birds. They are very active and curious about almost everything. Whenever I place a plant near my tiel, he keeps going around it and eventually starts to chew on it.
For that reason, we need to be careful and knowledgeable about the plants we put around our birds. According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and Niles Animal Hospital and Bird Medical Center, snake plant is not poisonous to cockatiels.
NOTE
However, you must note that if you own other pets such as dogs and cats like I, snake plants are actually toxic to both, cats and dogs. It will cause them excessive diarrhea, constant vomiting, and nausea.
You can choose to not have the plant around or keep it in forbidden places where your cat or dog doesn’t go to.
Are Snake Plants Poisonous to Budgies
The full name is budgerigars and also known as parakeets. But Budgies is the most popular nickname. Same as cockatiels, budgies tend to be very playful and curious about their environment. According to ASPCA and NAHBMC, tiger tail is completely safe for budgies. It is okay to place your plant near your bird. It can even chew on it.
Are Snake Plants Poisonous to Cockatoos
Cockatoos are extremely intelligent birds. They are known for their friendly mood towards their owner. In fact, cockatoos are one of the birds’ kinds who are able to distinguish what is good and what is harmful to them. So, it might be an easier task for you to identify what is safe for them and what’s not. Snake plant is not toxic to cockatoos. Feel free to let your birdy play with it.
Are snake Plants Poisonous to Small Birds
As for finches, lovebirds, canaries, and other small pet birds, the snake plant is safe to have around them. It does not release any toxins to harm your baby birds.
Similar Article: Are Orchids Toxic To Birds, Cats, Dogs, and Other Pets?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Put Snake Plant in My Birdcage
Since snake plants are not harmful to birds to chew, it is okay to place your snake plant in your bird’s cage as long as the plant is not too big and not very spiky. These plants tend to grow up to 1-4 feet tall (30-121 cm). Also, if your bird’s cage is small, avoid putting plants inside for it would make it suffocating and limiting for your bird.
Can My Bird Chew on My Snake Plant
Most birds love to chew on anything they find interesting. However, in my experience with birds, they tend to chew on dry things more than moist and wet things. However, if your birds feel attracted to bite on your snake plant, then it is completely fine since they are not toxic.
Can Snake Plants Leaves Hurt My Bird
Snake plant is a leafy plant. Its leaves are very attractive for pets to play with. Its spikey leaves can touch your birds’ eyes if they weren’t being careful. This can cause partial blindness, injuries, or cuts. When you release birds free in a room, you should always keep an eye on them.
Can I leave my Snake Plant around a Newborn Bird
No, you can not! Baby birds have a specific diet and need to be in a safe pampered environment. Leaving your baby around any plant, or anything with foliage can be dangerous.
NOTE
Plants like Pokeweed also produce the same toxin as the snake plant (Saponins), Pokeweed is considered toxic, and the Snake plant is considered safe.
Even though it is stated that snake plant is safe for birds, my guts don’t feel comfortable with this idea since it can be harmful to other pets such as dogs and cats and contains saponins. Unlike spider plants which contain no toxins and are completely safe.
I know that birds are not the same as dogs and cats, but you never know.
You need to be very alert around your birds once you set them free to play in a room. Fragile birds might have a reaction to this plant.
Conclusion
Some animals don’t seem to be able to judge dangerous and toxic plants. They would bite into anything and chew on everything. Birds are very playful and curious creatures. Taking them out of their cage to play and fly around is a must. But, one has to keep a keen eye on what they chew and play with.
If you’re considering purchasing a snake plant or getting a bird, you do not have to worry much because it is not poisonous.
