Just as toxic foods can harm humans (and cats), there are also poisonous plants that can be harmful to cats. In fact, some of the most toxic plants for cats are in our backyards! If you have a cat, it’s essential to be aware of these plants and take steps to keep your pet safe. This blog post will discuss some of the most toxic plants for cats and the symptoms.  

The most toxic plants for cats  

• Lilies are one of the most toxic plants for cats. All plant parts are toxic to cats, and even ingesting a small amount can be fatal. Symptoms of lily poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and weakness. It is crucial to immediately seek veterinary advices if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a lily plant.
• Tulips. The tulip is a member of the lily family. The toxicity of the tulip lies in the glycoside it produces, called Tuliposide A. This particular glycoside inhibits protein synthesis in cells. The toxin concentration is highest in the bulb (the root of the plant) and lowest in the plant’s stem, leaves, and floral part. That said, even a small nibble of tulip leaves or flowers can irritate the mucous membranes of the mouth and esophagus.
• Azaleas. There are about 250 different species of azaleas, and you mustn’t buy a variety of Rhododendrons. Azaleas’ leaves and stems are full of a toxic substance called “grayanotoxin.” Grayanotoxin is a powerful compound that can poison your pet.
• Roses. Many cat parents ask, ‘Are roses toxic to cats?’… Well, they are! Despite its dreamy scent and legendary beauty, the rose is a toxic flower for cats!

More dangerous plants…

• Geraniums. This must-have of our gardeners are particularly irritating for your feline, which can cause digestive disorders such as diarrhea. The whole plant is dangerous for your pet, so it is better to put them where your pet will not reach or have other non-toxic flowers!
• Hydrangeas. These are among the most toxic plants for your four-legged friend. The whole plant is poisonous.
• Tomatoes (leaves and stems are toxic). When your tomato is green, ABSOLUTELY avoid it for your pet. It is very toxic, even fatal to your cat, so do not let him near it if you have plants or a garden with tomatoes.  

Other plants that cats should avoid at all costs  

  Here’s a list of other plants to keep your cat away from! 

-Cactus  
-Chrysanthemums  

-Sago palms  

-Ivy  

-Aloe Vera  

-Castor Bean  

-Cyclamen  

-Dracaena  

-Purple Foxglove   

-Kalanchoe  

-Philodendron  

-Poinsettia (leaves)  

-Schefflera  

-Weeping Fig  

-Zamioculcas zamiifolia (commonly called ZZ plant)  

In case you have any of these plants in your home, it is important to keep them out of your cat’s reach. When your cat has ingested a poisonous plant or if you suspect he did, the first thing to do is call your veterinarian.  

Symptoms of plant poisoning  

Symptoms of plant poisoning can vary depending on the type of plant ingested, so it’s vital to get professional help immediately.  

By knowing what poisonous plants are in your home and taking steps to keep them out of reach, you can help protect your cat.  

If you think your cat has ingested a poisonous plant, don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian for help.  

Contact a professional immediately if you see a change in your pet’s behavior: vomiting, diarrhea, no longer playing, excessive drooling, or being very weak.

Other clinical symptoms may appear, such as tachycardia (increased heart rate) ,the increased of respiratory effort (difficulty breathing) and increased respiratory rate. Your cat might also expresses abdominal pain, tremors or seizures. Dizziness and coma  can also be other symptoms.

Treatments in case of intoxication  

Treatments differ depending on the type of plants and flowers ingested and how much your cat may have eaten.  

Your veterinarian might induce vomiting to empty the stomach contents and prevent absorption into the bloodstream. Activated charcoal will be administered to absorb as many of the toxins as possible.  

Some animals may require several days of hospitalization, or more invasive treatment, such as gastric lavage under general anesthesia. It may be more appropriate to remove as much of the substance as possible from the animal’s stomach.  

Since there is no specific way to test the amount of toxin ingested, hospitalization may occur for supportive treatment and care.  

What are other plants toxic to cats? Let us know in the comments below!  

And if you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us in the comments below or consult your veterinarian. Thanks for reading!