According to Pet Poison Hotline, cats will become poisoned by eating any part of the hydrangea plant. The toxic component of the hydrangea is called cyanogenic glycoside. The flowers, leaves, buds, and stalks all contain the poison, but the buds and leaves contain the most toxin.
What Is Hydrangea Poisoning in Cats?
Because of their gorgeous and vibrant flowers, hydrangea shrubs are frequently found in gardens and as houseplants. They are also commonly utilized as floral arrangements for formal occasions. These plants have large flower clusters that are colored in a variety of hues, including pink, red, blue, purple, and white, and broad, flat green leaves. These flowers are well-liked because of their enormous clusters, which resemble snowballs.
The hydrangea, also known as the hills of the snow, the hortensia plant, or seven bark, contains the same toxin as almonds, apple and pear seeds, and the pits of prunus species fruits, which include plum, cherry, peach, and apricot.
All parts of the hydrangea plant are toxic, but the highest concentration is found in the leaves and flowers.
While mild poisoning is common and frequently causes stomach upset in cats when they consume large amounts, severe toxicity is extremely rare. The cyanogenic glycoside known as amygdalin, which is also toxic to dogs, horses, and other animals, is found in hydrangeas.
Chewing on the plant releases its toxin, which can result in cyanide poisoning. Cyanide is a poison that acts quickly, entering the bloodstream and preventing the body from properly utilizing oxygen.
Your cat should be taken to a veterinary emergency room or seen by their veterinarian as soon as possible if you think they may have eaten any part of a hydrangea plant.
- Although the leaves and flowers of the hydrangea plant are the most toxic to cats, the entire plant is toxic to them.
- Regretfully, the precise amount of hydrangea your cat would need to consume in order to become seriously toxic is unknown.
- Don’t make your pet throw up at home if they consumed hydrangea.
Symptoms of Hydrangea Poisoning in Cats
Symptoms of hydrangea poisoning in cats include:
- Contact dermatitis, particularly in cats with delicate skin or a history of skin conditions
- Nausea and drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
- Decreased appetite
- Lethargy
- Weakness and depression
- Abdominal paib
In cases of cyanide poisoning, signs made include:
What Should I Do If My Cat Has Eaten a Hydrangea?
Your cat should see a veterinarian right away if you observe any of these signs or believe they have consumed any part of the hydrangea plant.
Whenever possible, it’s a good idea to bring a portion of the plant to the veterinarian so that they can make sure it is properly identified. This will help your veterinarian treat your cat’s symptoms.
If your cat doesn’t have any symptoms, you can call the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) for advice, but often with this type of toxicity, they will recommend a visit to the vet as well.
Time is of the essence if your cat has consumed a significant amount of hydrangea, as toxicity will worsen over time and the toxin will continue to be absorbed.
If you suspect a poisoning, do not induce vomiting at home unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to do so.
The chances of causing vomiting are frequently higher than the possibility of your cat developing mild hydrangea toxicity because severe toxicity is uncommon.
To make sure there are no additional health issues, your veterinarian will conduct a physical examination and review previous blood and urine tests. To rule out other possible causes of your cat’s digestive distress, they might even advise an X-ray of your cat’s abdomen.
FAQ
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