If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance, call the APCC at (888) 426-4435 or contact your local veterinarian as soon as possible. Ingestion of Amaryllis can result in vomiting, diarrhea, depression, lack of appetite, tremors, drooling and abdominal pain in some cats. Chrysanthemum 5. Roses, chrysanthemums, begonias, tulips and daffodils create a colorful carpet to delight the eye.Gardens add so much to the look of the outside of a home, and whether you grew the flowers yourself, a bouquet on the counter brightens any room. ... One of my cats enjoys trimming my mini rose plant if I ignore his meal demands. contains lycorine, a substance that is toxic to cats if ingested, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The toxic principles are Amaryllidaceae alkaloids which cause vomiting and diarrhea and irritant sap. Amaryllis plants are a type of lily, sometimes referred to as a Belladonna lily or Saint Joseph lily. Autumn Crocus 3. The Amaryllis contains lycorine and other noxious substances, which cause salivation, gastrointestinal abnormalities (vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite and abdominal pain), lethargy and tremors in both cats … If you see your cat eating a plant and you are uncertain if it is poisonous, or if you even suspect that your cat ate such a plant, do the following before you take him to your veterinarian: Remove any plant material from your cat’s hair, skin and mouth if … Note that other common names for the amaryllis include the cape belladonna and naked lady. contains lycorine, a substance that is toxic to cats if ingested, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Thanks a lot for this very useful information. The care she'll give will depend on your particular kitty and the amount of the plant he has eaten. ... but I had to get rid of quite a few plants. Is this poisonous to him? Amaryllis bulbs can be particularly harmful to pets. Monitor the cat’s breathing. Symptoms of amaryllis poisoning include excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and a loss of appetite, according to Infovets.com. If a dog or cat eats one, they may throw up, not feel like eating, have stomach pains, get diarrhea and possibly have tremors (shaking). And it's … Amaryllis 2. The Easter Lily is a year-round favorite but can create real issues for your cat. Your kitty can become poisoned by nibbling on the flowers, stems or leaves of an amaryllis plant. If someone eats a large part of an amaryllis bulb, they may feel sick to their stomach or throw up. Obviously, on … The National Animal Poison Control Center number is 1-888-426-4435. She writes about many subjects including pets, finances, crafts, food, home improvement, shopping and going green. English Ivy. Hippeastrum is also toxic to cats and will be covered in another article. If your kitty likes plants, provide him with some healthy barley grass to nibble on. Why do cats eat grass? They may also get diarrhea. Possible poisoning by an amaryllis plant is a serious medical emergency which requires treatment by your vet. About Privacy policy Disclaimer Linking policy FAQ Contact Sitemap Copyright © Cat-World.com - All Rights Reserved. These are the least serious symptoms a cat will display. Heavy breathing, difficulty inhaling, coughing, and sneezing could all be indicators that your cat has ingested something bad for its health. A small problem like a rash, or a big one like a heart health issue, can arise in sensitive people or pets from interactions with some of these common plants and flowers: Amaryllis; Easter Lily Is Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) Toxic To Cats? The plant contains similar toxins to the flowers in the Narcissus group or the Belladonna Amaryllis (the only true Amaryllis). If you suspect your pet has chewed on the Christmas tree or any other plants, monitor your pet for excessive licking or water consumption, unusual salivating, vomiting, or diarrhea. Flowers are produced on a leafless purple stem, hence the name naked lady. Her articles, short stories and reviews have appeared on City National Bank's website and on The Noseprint. I'm planting out 40 baby amaryllis bulbs this weekend, so you've got me worried. Lycorine is the primary alkaloid responsible for gastrointestinal signs which include: Other alkaloids are present in smaller amounts, and can cause: Contact your veterinarian or your local poisons helpline for advice. North Carolina State University claims that the plant is toxic only if large quantities are ingested. Kitties are curious by nature and may find your pretty amaryllis plants especially interesting. Julia lives in Sydney with her family, four cats and two dogs. If your cat ate the plant, the reaction could be happening inside the stomach or intestines, and you will most likely see diarrhea and/or vomiting. Here is a list of some of the most common types of poisonous plants: 1. Amaryllis. Respiratory problems can become fatal quickly. Amaryllis (Belladonna) The beauty of the flowering Amaryllis is only matched by its toxicity. These two variables can dictate a range of treatments, which could mean life or death for your cat. The toxic principles are Amaryllidaceae alkaloids which cause vomiting and diarrhea and irritant sap. These needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals are located in the tissues as a defence mechanism against herbivores (plant-eating animals). It was about an inch worth of material that he tore directly off the drying bulb. Here are 5 reasons why cats eat grass: Cats actually lack the stomach enzymes needed to break down and digest grass. Bring cuttings of the plant you believe your kitty has been munching on to the vet so that she can identify it properly. Unfortunately, felines tend to explore things they are curious about, like plants, by tasting them. However, a cat must eat a lot for there to be a severe problem, said Mohammad-Zadeh of DoveLewis. In general, it is good to keep in mind that certain pets may develop allergies, even though a food may be safe overall for an animal species. Cats are nimble, curious little creatures, so they'll find a way to reach them. Julia Wilson is a cat expert with over 20 years of experience writing about a wide range of cat topics, with a special interest in cat health, welfare and preventative care. My vet recommended giving hydrogen peroxide to see if he would throw it up but he hasn't done that yet. After reading this article I saw coleus in your article I have this plant so this must be the plant that my cat has eaten. However, it's a very toxic plant for cats … Amaryllis (Belladonna lily) is toxic to cats. Marijuana 9. UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine: Pets and Toxic Plants, Infovets: Toxic Substances, Plants, and Animals, Feline Advisory Bureau: Hidden Dangers of Plants, Community Animal Rescue Effort: Common Winter Hazards, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Ways to Cat-Proof Your Home, University of Minnesota Extension Program: Growing and Caring for Amaryllis, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: Animal Poison Control Center. Keep any floral arrangements you receive as gifts in rooms that are off-limits to your furry friend; you don't know exactly which flowers were included in them. As to nuts, the ASPCA especially lists macadamia nuts as not good for dogs, as it can cause weakness, tremors, vomiting, hyperthermia, etc. Take the cat to the vet with a sample of the plant – or even better a plant label. Members of the Lilium species are considered highly toxic to cats. Based in Las Vegas, Susan Paretts has been writing since 1998. Bring your kitty to the vet immediately if you believe that he has been chewing on any amaryllis plants. The extent of the poisoning and severity of his symptoms depends on how much of the plant he has ingested. Tulip and Narcissus bulbs 15. If your furry companion has access to your outdoor garden, keep amaryllis plants out of there as well. In short, cats eat grass because its comes naturally to them and can support their health – in the same way eating leafy greens helps us humans stay healthy. English Ivy 7. However, it's a very toxic plant for cats (and dogs) due to the presence of the chemical lycorine. If you see your cat eat something that you suspect to be poisonous, do not attempt to make the cat vomit. Pothos 12. Open the cat's mouth without tipping its head way back and slowly pour in one of the following: Give 1 to 2 teaspoons of syrup of ipecac (may be repeated once in twenty minutes if needed). Lilies. Lilies 8. Spanish thyme 14. Amaryllis is native to South Africa and has pink flowers on a leafless stem. Subsequently, question is, what part of Amaryllis is poisonous? Closely monitor the rise and fall of your cat’s chest, and listen for coughing, hacking, wheezing, and sneezing. A garden in full bloom is a wonderful way to showcase your yard. Cats that are lethargic and off their food for a day or more may also have ingested something unsuitable and professional help should be sought. That’s why it’s important to know which common plants can be poisonous. My squirrels and rabbits figure out something's good and finish it off. My cat ate something that made her very ill and had to be taken to the vet. The plant, whose scientific botanical name is Amaryllis sp. It also helps to have a pet poison control number on hand. Remember that your kitty is able to jump to high places so even plants placed on windowsills or counter tops aren't out of reach for your furry companion. The treatment of choice for most types of poisoning is gastrointestinal decontamination (induce vomiting) if the exposure was recent. Amaryllis (Belladonna lily) is toxic to cats. While there isn't a cure for amaryllis poisoning, your vet may induce vomiting to rid your little one of the toxins in his system. All parts of this type of plant, especially the bulb, contain the toxic ingredient lycorine, a type of phenanthridine alkaloid that causes gastrointestinal upset. All parts of the plant are toxic, bulbs have the highest concentration of amaryllidaceae alkaloids. Now I will get rid of this plant. https://www.vets-now.com/2017/03/spring-plants-warnings-cat-owners Peace Lily 11. Also called Branching Ivy, Glacier Ivy, Needlepoint Ivy, Sweetheart Ivy, and California Ivy, … Hippeastrum is a popular red or red and white flowering bulb that blooms at Christmas time. Amaryllis is a beautiful bulbous flowering perennial native to South Africa. Both popular gift items at this time of year, the lily and daffodil can be toxic to … Give 1 to 2 teaspoons of a 1:1 mix of hydrogen perioxide and water (repeat a few … Rescue cat Asha was rushed to our emergency clinic in Nottingham after she managed to raise the alarm herself about just how unwell she was. No matter who you contact, it's important you know the name of the dried flower your cat ate and how long ago she ate it. The amaryllis is a desirable holiday plant because it's fun to watch the bulb grow into a tall, majestic flower. The amaryllis is found commonly in floral arrangements, especially during the holidays, so ask your florist which flowers she has included in your decorative bouquets. Depending on the plant, you may see failure of internal organs like the lungs, kidney, or heart. Keep a close eye on her and call your vet if you notice any symptoms or problems. The amaryllis is a member of the lily family, and while it is not as toxic to animals as many lilies, it can cause severe health issues if your dog or cat consumes the leaves or other parts of the plant. :-o A super-clever cat climbed into her pet carrier to alert her owner she was poorly — after she poisoned herself eating a daffodil. Keep plants and flowers which are toxic to cats out of the home, especially if your cat is prone to nibbling plants. The amaryllis is a desirable holiday plant because it's fun to watch the bulb grow into a tall, majestic flower. The most poisonous part of the amaryllis is the bulb, which an unsupervised dog might chew on even if the stalk hasn’t erupted from the soil. What if my cat eats pine needles? PetPlace: Is an Amaryllis Toxic if Ingested by a Cat? Azaleas and Rhododendrons 4. Lilies and Daffodils. Eating an amaryllis bulb may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, salivation and diarrhea. Plus, you don't need mistletoe to kiss your cat! Cyclamen 6. Paretts holds a Master of Professional Writing from the University of Southern California. Sago Palm 13. within 12 hours; it isn’t clear if it affects cats, but better to stay away. Toxicity to pets The Amaryllis is a part of the large Liliacea family but does not have the same toxic principles as the more common “true” lilies (e.g., Easter, Asiatic, Day, Japanese show, etc.). What should I do if my cat has been exposed? American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: Amaryllis. The University of California has placed Amaryllis belladonna in the toxic classes of 2 and 4. She enjoys photography, gardening and running in her spare time. I have found planting garlic or green onions amongst things keeps 4, 6, and eight-legged critters away. I know I always start to worry when my cat walks through the garden with me. The plant, whose scientific botanical name is Amaryllis sp. Many types of lily, such as … As a result, it sometimes… comes back up. The following list contains some of the most commonly seen plants that are toxic to cats (Source: PetMd.com): • Amaryllis (Amaryllis sp.) Note: Hippeastrum is often erroneously labelled as Amaryllis, however, they are two different plants. Oleander 10. Common names: Jersey lily, Belladonna-lily, Naked lady, or March lily, Toxic compounds: Amaryllidaceae alkaloids, specifically lycorine, Activated charcoal to bind to the remaining toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, Fluids to maintain hydration until the cat recovers. My cat ate a few bites of an Amaryllis blossom yesterday, and since has eaten very little else and mostly been just My cat ate a few bites of an Amaryllis blossom yesterday, I have a 10 week old kitten that seemed to be thriving until I have a 10 week old kitten that seemed to … Easter Lilies. The plant produces trumpet-shaped flowers that usually appear red or scarlet, but can come in a variety of colors, including white and pink, according to University of Minnesota Extension Program. Eating small amounts of plants or grass may be normal for cats. Bulb was not accessible to him. Consult with your vet if you aren't sure if a plant is toxic or not before displaying it in your home or in your garden. Amaryllis plants are toxic to kitties and should be kept out of your home and garden to protect your furry friend. Symptoms will vary depending on the route of exposure (skin or ingestion), the amount ingested and which parts of the plant have been consumed. If your vet isn't available, you'll need to go to an emergency veterinary clinic or contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. But the entire lily plant (leaf, pollen, and flower) is poisonous to them, according to Melanie McLean, a veterinarian at FDA. My cat just ate a dried Amaryllis leaf that is dried out (looks like tissue paper). Yew This list is not an exhaustive list so if you don’t see a plant you are familiar with, try visiting the ASPCAfor a more extensive li… Eating amaryllis can cause vomiting, changes in blood pressure, tremors and seizures. Full author bio Contact Julia. Foliage develops in autumn, through to late winter. All types of lilies, including all species of the amaryllis plant, are very toxic to kitties and should be kept away from them. She also may provide intravenous fluids to keep him hydrated and some activated charcoal to absorb the toxins from his system, according to PetMD. The ingestion of the amaryllis bulb by a curious pet can occur when your dog finds a bag of bulbs ready for planting, chews on the plant within the home, or explores the garden area and eats a quantity of bulbs or sections of the plant. Copyright 2021 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. My cat is 8.5 and she recently Stopped eating, she pees in random places, she sleeps often even though she is normally active, and her gums are pale. Its large, showy trumpet-shaped pink flowers form in clumps and bloom in late summer to early autumn.