Purple baby tears is a plant that is often kept as a houseplant or in gardens. The scientific name for purple baby tears is Soleirolia soleirolii. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America.
One of the most common questions we get here at The Cat Doctor is whether or not purple baby tears (Soleirolia soleirolii) are toxic to cats. The short answer is no, this plant is not considered poisonous to kitties. However, there have been a few reports of stomach upset after ingestion, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and keep your cat away from these plants.
If you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a purple baby tear plant, please call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 for guidance.
Credit: www.aspca.org
Is Purple Baby Tears Toxic for Cats
No, purple baby tears (Soleirolia soleirolii) is not toxic for cats. This plant is actually considered non-toxic for all animals by the ASPCA.
What are the Symptoms of Toxicity in Cats
Toxicity in cats can manifest in a variety of ways, depending on the substance involved. Generally, toxicity results in gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. In more severe cases, neurological symptoms may be seen, such as tremors, seizures, or paralysis.
If your cat is displaying any of these signs after exposure to a potentially toxic substance, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.
How Much Exposure is Needed to Cause Toxicity
Exposure to toxins can cause a range of health effects, from short-term irritation to more serious conditions like cancer. The amount of exposure needed to cause toxicity depends on several factors, including the type and concentration of the toxin, as well as the age and health of the exposed individual. In general, however, even small amounts of some toxins can be harmful.
For example, inhaling just a few breaths of mercury vapor can cause severe lung damage.
What is the Treatment for Toxicity
Toxicity can be treated in a number of ways, depending on the severity of the toxicity and the substance involved. For mild cases of toxicity, treatment may simply involve removing the person from exposure to the toxin and providing supportive care. This may include giving them fluids through an IV to help flush the toxin out of their system and treating any symptoms they are experiencing.
More severe cases may require more aggressive treatment, such as dialysis or administration of activated charcoal to bind to and remove the toxin from the body. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or organs.
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Conclusion
There are a lot of urban legends out there about which plants are toxic to cats. One plant that seems to come up a lot is purple baby tears (Soleirolia soleirolii). This plant is also known as mind-your-own-business, Irish moss, and baby’s tears.
It’s a small, evergreen groundcover with purple flowers that is native to the Mediterranean. The plant gets its name from the fact that the leaves look like tiny tear drops.
So, is purple baby tears toxic to cats?
The answer is maybe. The jury is still out on this one because there is limited research available. Some sources say that the plant is only mildly toxic to cats while others say it can be fatal.
The most common symptom of toxicity is vomiting, but other symptoms can include diarrhea, loss of appetite, and depression. If you think your cat has eaten any part of this plant, it’s important to take them to the vet right away for treatment.
