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Cats are known to eat indoor and outdoor plants, such as yucca plants. They may eat plants out of curiosity or for other reasons. But sometimes plants and cats don’t mix well! What happens if a cat eats a yucca plant? Can the yucca plant make a cat sick?
Has your cat eaten a yucca plant? Are you worried the yucca plant 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 yucca plants and whether they can make a cat sick. Let’s get started!
What is Yucca Plant?
Yucca plants are a type of perennial shrubs and trees from the family Asparagaceae. There are about 40-50 species of these plants that are known for their spear-shaped leaves and tall branches of white flowers. They’re very pretty plants!
The plants grow in many parts of the US and are very popular in gardens and yards. But what happens if a cat eats a yucca plant?
Yucca Plants & Cats
Unfortunately, yucca plants are toxic to cats. The plants contain saponins that are toxic to cats.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Yucca Toxicity in Cats
You may notice these symptoms if your cat eats a yucca plant:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of coordination
- Convulsions
- Drooling
- Dilated pupils
- Breathing difficulties
If your cat shows any of these or other concerning symptoms, call the vet immediately. This is an emergency. Don’t wait to see if your cat’s symptoms worsen or improve. She needs to see the vet now.
Treatment of Yucca Plant Toxicity in Cats
The vet may try to induce vomiting and use activated charcoal to remove the yucca plant and its saponin from your cat’s system. If these are not effective, the vet may also try gastric lavage. Your fur baby may also require an IV for fluids and to administer medications.
The vet will treat other symptoms as they arise. If your kitty is seriously ill, she may need to be hospitalized until she’s in stable condition.
The prognosis is best for cats who receive prompt medical treatment after eating yucca plant. In the future, it’s best to keep your cat away from these plants. This may mean removing the plants from your yard or garden, especially if your feline companion loves to eat the plants. You’ll both be happier and healthier for it!
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Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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