Is Engelmann's Prickly Pear toxic to cats?

No — engelmann's prickly pear is listed by the ASPCA as non-toxic to cats. It is a sensible choice for a home with a cat; a curious nibble will not poison them, though no plant is meant to be eaten. ASPCA lists Opuntia species ("Tree Cactus", family Cactaceae) as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses; the fruit and pads are eaten by people and wildlife. The hazard is purely mechanical - stout spines plus barbed glochids that injure mouths, paws, and skin - so harvest and handle carefully and keep pets clear.

Yes — the ASPCA lists engelmann's prickly pear as non-toxic to cats and dogs. A cat that chews a large amount of any foliage can still get a mild, brief stomach upset, so discourage grazing, but it will not be poisoned.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Engelmann's Prickly Pear is non-toxic to dogs as well. See the full engelmann's prickly pear pet-safety guide for both species.

Reliable ASPCA non-toxic picks for a cat home include spider plant, calathea, parlor palm, peperomia, and most true ferns. Browse the best cats-safe plants list to check more before you buy.