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Poisonous Plants etc . .
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Plants that are toxic to cats:
Clients often ask us which plants are poisonous to cats. It is difficult to create a list of poisonous plants because while some plants are outright toxic to anyone who eats or comes in contact with the plant (Jimson Weed, nightshade), others may cause a reaction in some but not in others. The following is a listing of plants normally thought to be poisonous to cats. The list is not complete. You should restrict your pets' access to any questionable plants. Poisonous plants vary between species. Don't assume that since a bird, squirrel or dog ate a plant with no problems, others (human, cat, rabbit) can do the same. Unless otherwise stated, consider all parts of the plant poisonous. Some of the most popular house plants are extremely dangerous. Lilies in particular are so poisonous that eating just a single leaf is enough to kill a cat. Lilies have become very popular recently therefore we want to warn people of their potential danger. Recently a cat was reported to have simply brushed past a vase of lilies, getting pollen onto her fur. She began licking herself clean and within minutes the horrendous symptoms began. She became lethargic and dehydrated. She vomited continuously before suffering kidney failure, blindness, paralysis and death. Toxic Plants Azalea -
entire plant, Cardiotoxic, (can affect the
heart)
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Cleaning Agents Never allow cats access to the area where cleaning agents are used or stored. Cleaning agents have a variety of properties; from those that could just irritate the gastrointestinal tract to those that have a corrosive action and can chemically burn the sensitive mucous membranes of the mouth, oesophagus, and stomach. Garden When treating the lawn or garden with fertilizers, herbicides, or insecticides, always keep cats away until the area dries completely. Discuss usage with the manufacturer of the products to be used. Always store such products in an area that will ensure no cat exposure. Garage All vehicle products such as oil, petrol, and antifreeze should be stored in areas away from cat access. As little as one teaspoon of antifreeze (ethylene glycol) can be deadly to a cat. Medications Never give your cat any medications unless under the directions of a vet. Many medications that are used safely in humans can be deadly when used inappropriately. Keep all prescription and over the counter drugs out of reach of your pets. Pain killers, cold medicines, anti-cancer drugs, antidepressants, and diet pills are common examples of human medication that could be potentially lethal even in small dosages. Chocolate Don't leave chocolates unattended. Approximately one half ounce of baking chocolate per pound body weight or less can cause clinical signs of toxicity. Household items Many common household items have been shown to be lethal in certain species, including felines. Miscellaneous items that are highly toxic even in low quantities include some coins (high concentration of zinc), mothballs (contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene - one or two balls can be life threatening in most species), potpourri oils, fabric softener sheets, automatic dishwasher detergents (contain cationic detergents which could cause corrosive lesions), batteries (contain acids or alkali which can also cause corrosive lesions), homemade play dough (contains high quantity of salt), winter heat source agents like hand or foot warmers (contain high levels of iron), cigarettes, coffee granules, and alcoholic drinks. Flea products Before buying or using flea products on your cat or in your household, contact your vet to discuss what types of flea products she/he would recommend for your pet. Read ALL information before using a product on your cat or in your home. Always follow label instructions. When a product is labelled "for use in dogs only" it should NEVER be used on cats. |
