We may not realize it but many of our household plants are toxic to cats. If your cat decides to eat one of these toxic plants it will be helpful to know the type of plant consumed to inform your Roswell vet.
Cat Poisoning
Cats just love to jump and explore, which makes keeping toxic houseplants out of a curious cat's reach, a challenging endeavor.
Our Roswell vets recommend that you learn the names of the plants in your home and research which plants are toxic to your pets to help protect your cat's future health.
How To Protect Your Cat
The safest thing you can do for your cat is to remove toxic houseplants from your home or move them to a room that your cat cannot enter. Nonetheless, if your cat does manage to consume a toxic or poisonous houseplant, knowing the plant's name may assist your veterinarian in treating your feline friend as soon as possible.
If you notice your cat eating any plant that you're unsure of, call your vet.
Which Plants Are Toxic To Cats?
Several plants are poisonous or toxic to cats. The list below includes many of the most common plants that could harm your cat or kitten:- Spring bulbs
- Amaryllis
- Autumn Crocus
- Azaleas and Rhododendrons
- Castor Bean
- Chrysanthemum
- Daffodils
- Dieffenbachia
- English Ivy
- Hyacinths
- Kalanchoe
- Lily
- Lily of the Valley
- Marijuana
- Oleander
- Peace Lily
- Pothos, Devil’s Ivy
- Sago Palm
- Spanish Thyme
- Tulip
- Yew
Toxic Parts of Plants
Cats can be poisoned by pollen, needles, seeds, flowers, and leaves. Cats frequently consume toxic plant substances while grooming themselves as a result of pollen or seeds becoming trapped in their fur or on their paws. Bored cats may find a hanging plant to be an entertaining toy and chew on the leaves or vines while playing.
Signs of Poisoning in Cats
Different plants pose varying health risks to cats, with some being far more dangerous than others. Plant poisoning symptoms in cats can range from mild skin irritation to serious issues affecting the kidneys or heart.
Symptoms of Irritants
- Itchiness, scratching
- Swelling
- Red, watery eyes
- Irritation around the mouth
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Other Serious Symptoms
- Breathing difficulties
- Irregular heartbeat
- Drooling, difficulties swallowing
- Frequent Urination
What Should You Do If Your Cat Eats A Toxic Plant?
See your vet if you notice your cat eating a plant that you are unsure of. But before heading to the vet there are a few things you should do:
Move Your Cat to Safety
Calmly remove any bits of plant from around your cat's mouth, paws, or fur then move your cat to a safe confined space (well away from the plant) while you get ready to go to the vet.
Identify the Poison
Take a few seconds to identify the plant that your cat has been eating, then contact your regular veterinarian or, if it is after hours, Animal Emergency Center. Inform the vet of the incident and that you will be bringing your cat in for an examination.
Bring a Sample of the Plant With You
Bring a plant sample to your emergency veterinarian, or if you are unsure which plant your cat has been eating, consider bringing in a sample of your cat's vomit containing the plant material.
How Is Plant Poisoning Diagnosed?
Being able to identify the plant that your cat has ingested will give your vet a head start when it comes to diagnosis and treatment.
If you cannot provide your vet with the name of the plant or a sample of the plant matter, your vet will need to run a series of tests to identify the type of poison ingested in order to treat your feline friend appropriately.