There are a lot of plants that are toxic to cats, and plumbago larpentiae is one of them. This pretty blue flower is actually very poisonous to our feline friends, and can cause a variety of symptoms if they ingest it. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, seizures, and even death.
If you have this plant in your home and you also have cats, it’s important to remove it or keep it out of reach.
No definitive answer exists as to whether Plumbago larpentiae is toxic to cats. Some experts believe that the plant may be harmful if ingested, while others claim that it poses no threat to felines. If you are concerned about your cat coming into contact with this plant, it is best to err on the side of caution and keep them away from it.
Is Plumbago Larpentiae Toxic to Cats
No, plumbago larpentiae is not toxic to cats. This plant is native to South Africa and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia, as an ornamental plant. It is a member of the leadwort family and its flowers are blue or violet.
The plant can grow up to two metres tall and has glossy green leaves.
What are the Symptoms of Plumbago Larpentiae Toxicity in Cats
There is little information available on Plumbago Larpentiae toxicity in cats, however, it is thought to be similar to that seen in dogs. Symptoms of toxicity may include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, weakness and tremors. In severe cases, seizures and death may occur.
If you suspect your cat has ingested any part of this plant, please contact your veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately.
How Can I Treat Plumbago Larpentiae Toxicity in My Cat
If your cat has ingested Plumbago larpentiae, also known as leadwort, you will need to seek professional medical help immediately. Leadwort is a highly toxic plant that can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and even death in cats. The symptoms of leadwort toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures.
If you suspect your cat has ingested leadwort, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 for guidance on how to best treat the toxicity.
What is the Prognosis for a Cat With Plumbago Larpentiae Toxicity
If your cat has been exposed to Plumbago larpentiae, also known as leadwort, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Leadwort exposure can be fatal to cats if left untreated. The good news is that with prompt treatment, many cats make a full recovery.
Leadwort toxicity occurs when a cat ingests the plant. The lead in the plant can cause neurological damage and gastrointestinal upset. Signs of leadwort toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, seizures, and paralysis.
If you suspect your cat has ingested leadwort, please contact your veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately.
Treatment for leadwort toxicity will be based on the severity of your cat’s symptoms. Treatment may include decontamination (e.g., induced vomiting or gastric lavage), supportive care (e.g., IV fluids), and specific treatments for neurological damage (e.g., seizure management).
With prompt and aggressive treatment, many cats make a full recovery from leadwort toxicity.
Conclusion
If you have a cat, you might be wondering if plumbago larpentiae is toxic to them. The short answer is no, it is not toxic to cats. However, the plant can cause stomach upset if ingested in large quantities.
If your cat eats a small amount of the plant, they may experience vomiting and diarrhea. If you are concerned about your cat ingesting this plant, please contact your veterinarian or local poison control center for more information.
