are geraniums poisonous to cats

Geranium: (Pelargonium spp) All parts of geraniums are poisonous to both dogs and cats. Also present in summer. Hyacinth: (Hyacinthus orientalis) The bulbs are poisonous to both cats and dogs. Hydrangea: (Hydrangea) Bulbs are toxic to both cats and dogs as they contain cyanide.

Recovery of Scented Geranium Poisoning in Cats

The likelihood of a positive outcome for cats suffering from scented geranium poisoning is high and primarily contingent upon the quantity of plant material ingested. Most of the time, a cat will heal in about 24 hours if it isn’t permitted to eat any more plant material. The earlier the feline is brought to the veterinary hospital, the better her or his chances are of recovering fully, as is the case with all cases of plant toxicity. Eliminating scented geranium plants from your cat’s surroundings is the best defense against scented geranium poisoning.

Scented Geranium Poisoning Average Cost

From 577 quotes ranging from $200 – $850

Causes of Scented Geranium Poisoning in Cats

When cats consume any part of the scented plant, they can become poisoned by scented geranium. The essential oils linaool and geranoil found in the leaves, stem, roots, and particularly the flower of the scented geranium are toxic to cats and other household animals like horses and dogs. The stomach does not handle the essential oils in plants well, so nausea usually occurs before the cat can consume a significant amount of greenery. Unfortunately, even a small amount of scented geranium is dangerous because of how small most cats are.

Treatment of Scented Geranium Poisoning in Cats

Treatment for feline scented geranium poisoning involves removing the plant to stop further ingestion and getting rid of the toxins from the cat’s body. An emetic medication will be given to the cat to induce vomiting in order to remove the undigested toxin from its stomach. Activated charcoal may also be administered by the veterinarian. In the digestive tract, activated charcoal will bind with harmful substances to stop absorption. Intravenous fluids may be used as part of the cat’s treatment to help him or her rehydrate.

FAQ

What happens if a cat eats a geranium?

Toxicity to pets Geraniums contain essential oils (linalool, gerinaol) which can cause gastrointestinal upset or skin irritation with exposure. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, depression or lethargy, anorexia (i.e. lack of appetite) and dermatitis.

Are cats OK with geraniums?

The leaves, stem, roots, and especially the flower of the scented geranium contain essential oils, linaool and geranoil, which are toxic to felines, as well as other domestic animals like horses and dogs.

Which geraniums are toxic?

Pelargonium species belong to the Geraniaceae family. They are mildly toxic due to several components found throughout the plant. Geraniol is a pungent chemical that is a primary ingredient in essential oils like citronella and rose oil. It is a skin irritant and can be harmful to the eyes.

What animals are eating my geraniums?

The problem usually only lasts for about 6-8 weeks, but in some parts of the country it goes on all year long. The insect culprit is Heliothis virescens also known as the Tobacco Budworm, Geranium Budworm and Petunia Budworm. It is a 1” brown moth that usually flutters around the plants in the evening.