Begonias are poisonous to cats because they contain toxins called soluble calcium oxalates. If sufficient quantities oxalic acid are eaten catastrophic liver failure, leading to serious illness and even death may occur.
Causes of Begonia Poisoning in Cats
The begonia plant has high concentrations of oxalate in its composition. After being consumed, the oxalate crystals lodge themselves in different tissues, causing irritation. They can also decompose into the highly irritating oxalic acid. The cat’s body will try to dilute the acid with saliva and vomit in an effort to prevent more irritation and damage to the digestive tract. A certain amount of the toxin will eventually enter the bloodstream and travel to the liver. This turn of events can be particularly dangerous because oxalic acid can cause catastrophic liver failure in large enough doses, which can result in serious illness or even death.
Which are the most poisonous plants for dogs and cats?
The most toxic plants for dogs and cats include rhododendron, Begonia, Chrysanthemum, Cyclamen, Hosta, ivy, and lilies. For further information, refer to the list below:
- Rhododendron: This plant can be hazardous to horses in addition to being toxic to dogs and cats. Even a small amount of leaf consumption can result in depression, diarrhea, excessive drooling, loss of appetite, and even impaired coordination. In extreme circumstances, it may result in a weak heartbeat and even death.
- Begonia: A well-liked and adaptable summertime plant, these will burn and irritate dogs’ and cats’ mouths severely if consumed. Additionally, ingestion will result in vomiting, excessive drooling, and perhaps difficulty swallowing for your pet.
- Chrysanthemum: Its distinct scent may attract certain dogs and cats, and sometimes eating it can result in nausea, depression, and disorientation.
- Cyclamen: If your pet likes to dig and you have this plant in your garden, be on the lookout for severe vomiting because the root of this plant is highly toxic to dogs and cats. It has occasionally been known for eating to cause fatalities.
- Hosta (seen above): Make sure your pet does not become attracted to them because their leaves, flowers, and roots are toxic to cats and dogs. If they do, you should anticipate depressive symptoms, which will be followed by nausea and diarrhea.
- Ivy: Only a few varieties, such as English, California, Branching, Glacier, Needlepoint, Sweetheart, and Branching ivy, are harmful. Eating it will cause vomiting, hypersalivation and diarrhoea.
- Lilies: Eating lilies can result in renal failure in cats because they are extremely toxic, even in small amounts. In stark contrast, they are not toxic to dogs.
- Tomato plants: While eating them won’t kill your pet, they can cause severe diarrhea, drowsiness, and slow heart rate in dogs and cats. One way to tell if your pet may have eaten them is to look for dilated pupils.
- Tulip: If your dog enjoys digging, be cautious around them as the plant’s bulb contains a lot of toxins. If this is consumed, convulsions and abnormalities of the heart may occur.
- Daffodils: While this flower is a welcome addition to the garden in the spring, its most toxic part is the bulb, which, if consumed, can result in low blood pressure, diarrhea, and tremors.
Symptoms of Begonia Poisoning in Cats
Begonia poisoning typically does not pose a life-threatening threat, but it can cause some fairly noticeable symptoms. If cat owners notice these symptoms, they should immediately take their pet to the veterinarian to avoid more serious issues.
- Excessive salivation
- Oral sores
- Redness around the mouth
- Swelling of the mouth and tongue
- Licking the lips and grimacing
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- Inability to swallow
- Refusal of food and water
FAQ
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