Saving a Cat-Damaged Wandering Jew (Tradescantia): Emergency Recovery Steps

Cat urine burns roots with concentrated nitrogen, often killing the plant. If your 20-year-old Wandering Jew has been used as a litter box, act fast:

Immediate Triage

1. Take cuttings NOW—3-inch tips rooted in moist medium are your insurance policy.
2. Unpot and inspect roots. Discard mushy, dark roots; keep only firm, light-colored ones.
3. Repot in fresh, well-draining mix with added bone meal (phosphorus) to stimulate root regrowth. NO NITROGEN.
4. Severely prune top growth to reduce strain on damaged roots.
5. Provide gentle bottom warmth and bright, indirect light.

Recovery is slow and uncertain. The cuttings are your best bet for preserving the plant's legacy. Keep the cat away from future plants!