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Many pet parents are concerned about their cats eating plants. Our feline companions seem compelled to eat plants; however, they don’t realize some plants are toxic to them! So, what happens if a cat eats plants?
Has your cat eaten plants? Are you worried the plants will make your cat sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your cat eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about plants and whether they can make a cat sick. Let’s get started!
Why Do Cats Eat Plants?
Wild felines usually eat some plants! Experts believe they eat plants to help their digestive systems function better and to make it easier to move fur balls out. Our domesticated feline friends tend to eat plants for the same reasons!
So, eating plants comes naturally to cats. It can be healthy for them. You may have even noticed “cat grass” at the pet shop or online. Here’s one that’s very popular; it’s the Cali Kiwi Pros Complete Organic Cat Grass kit. The kit contains wheatgrass, which is safe for cats.
Plants & Cats
While some plants are safe for cats to eat, there are others that are toxic for our feline fur babies. Here are some plants that are highly toxic to cats:
- Lilies (too many varieties to list here)
- Foxglove
- Lily of the Valley
- Kalanchoe
- Japanese Yew
- Sago Palms
- Asparagus Fern
- Tulips & hyacinths
- Autumn Crocus
- Azaleas
- And many more
These are a mix of outdoor and houseplants that cats may choose to eat. On the other hand, some plants are safe for cats to eat, such as grass, airplane plants, and more. But what happens if a cat eats a toxic plant?
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Plant Toxicity in Cats
You may notice these symptoms if your cat eats a toxic plant:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Mouth irritation
- Excessive drooling
- Breathing problems
- And more
This is not an exhaustive list of symptoms. So, if you notice these or other symptoms in your cat, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency.
Try to take a part of the plant with you to the vet’s office. This helps the vet determine what your cat has eaten and how to treat her symptoms.
Treatment of Toxic Plant Ingestion in Cats
Treatment depends on your cat’s symptoms and the type of plant she’s eaten. The vet may induce vomiting and use activated charcoal to decontaminate her system. They will also treat other symptoms as they arise.
Your feline companion may require an IV for fluids and to administer medications. In some cases, it may be necessary for your cat to be hospitalized until she’s in stable condition.
The prognosis is best for cats who receive prompt medical treatment after eating a toxic plant. In the future, it’s best to remove all toxic plants from your garden and in the house. If your kitty likes to eat green plants, ask the vet about the safest options to try, such as the cat grass kit. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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