String Of Dolphins Toxic To Cats: A Danger Lurking in Your Garden

Oleh Leon VonRueden May 26, 2023 Post a Comment

String of Dolphins, also known as Senecio peregrinus, is a popular ornamental houseplant that has recently gained popularity for its unique and captivating appearance. However, many pet owners have been wondering whether this plant is safe for their furry little friends.

The answer is no – String of Dolphins is toxic to cats! Ingesting even a small amount of this plant can cause severe health problems in cats, including vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. In this article, we will explore the dangers associated with String of Dolphins and what you can do to keep your feline friend safe.

What is String of Dolphins?

String of Dolphins is a succulent plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Its leaves are green and resemble tiny dolphins, which is where it gets its name. This plant is native to South Africa and is often grown as a houseplant because of its unique appearance.

Why is String of Dolphins Toxic to Cats?

The leaves of String of Dolphins contain a toxic compound called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). When ingested, these compounds can cause liver damage, digestive problems, and even death in cats. The severity of the symptoms depends on the amount of the plant ingested and the size of the cat.

How Does String of Dolphins Affect Cats?

When a cat ingests String of Dolphins, the PAs present in the plant are absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the liver. The liver then tries to detoxify the PAs, but in the process, it becomes damaged. This can lead to liver failure and even death if left untreated.

Symptoms of String of Dolphins toxicity in cats include:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Jaundice
Increased thirst and urination

If you suspect that your cat has ingested String of Dolphins, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

How Can You Keep Your Cat Safe?

The best way to keep your cat safe from String of Dolphins toxicity is to avoid bringing this plant into your home. If you already have this plant, make sure it is kept in a location where your cat cannot access it.

If you notice any symptoms of String of Dolphins toxicity in your cat, take them to the vet immediately. Early treatment can often prevent serious health problems and even save your cat's life.

Other Plants That Are Toxic to Cats

String of Dolphins is not the only plant that is toxic to cats. Here are some other plants that should be avoided if you have a feline friend:

Lily of the Valley
Azaleas and Rhododendrons
Tulips and Hyacinths
Sago Palm
Oleander
Castor Bean
Yew
Chrysanthemums
Autumn Crocus
English Ivy

What Should You Do If Your Cat Eats Something Toxic?

If you suspect that your cat has eaten something toxic, it is important to act quickly. The first thing you should do is call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a veterinarian or poison control expert. Some substances can cause more harm if vomited up.

String of Dolphins may be a beautiful and unique houseplant, but it is not worth the risk to your furry little friends. If you have a cat, it is best to avoid this plant altogether. If you already have one, make sure it is kept out of your cat's reach.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to keeping your pets safe from toxic substances. If you suspect that your cat has ingested something toxic, don't hesitate to seek veterinary care immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What makes String of Dolphins toxic to cats?

A: The leaves of String of Dolphins contain a toxic compound called pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). When ingested, these compounds can cause liver damage, digestive problems, and even death in cats.

Q2. What are the symptoms of String of Dolphins toxicity in cats?

A: Symptoms of String of Dolphins toxicity in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, jaundice, increased thirst and urination.

Q3. Can String of Dolphins toxicity be fatal for cats?

A: Yes, if left untreated, String of Dolphins toxicity can lead to liver failure and even death in cats.

Q4. What should I do if my cat has ingested String of Dolphins?

A: If you suspect that your cat has ingested String of Dolphins, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Q5. What other plants are toxic to cats?

A: Other plants that are toxic to cats include Lily of the Valley, Azaleas and Rhododendrons, Tulips and Hyacinths, Sago Palm, Oleander, Castor Bean, Yew, Chrysanthemums, Autumn Crocus, and English Ivy.

Q6. Can I still keep String of Dolphins if I have a cat?

A: It is not recommended to keep String of Dolphins if you have a cat. If you already have one, make sure it is kept out of your cat's reach.

Q7. How can I prevent my cat from eating toxic plants?

A: The best way to prevent your cat from eating toxic plants is to avoid bringing them into your home. If you already have toxic plants, make sure they are kept out of your cat's reach.

Q8. What should I do if my cat eats something toxic?

A: If you suspect that your cat has eaten something toxic, it is important to act quickly. The first thing you should do is call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Q9. Should I induce vomiting if my cat eats something toxic?

A: Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a veterinarian or poison control expert. Some substances can cause more harm if vomited up.

Q10. How can I keep my cat safe from toxic plants?

A: The best way to keep your cat safe from toxic plants is to avoid bringing them into your home. If you already have toxic plants, make sure they are kept out of your cat's reach.