Are Hydrangeas Poisonous to Cats
Curiosity indeed will kill a cat that has been curious enough to bite into a hydrangea. Hydrangeas are only one of the many toxic plants that are poisonous enough to possibly take the life of the feline.
Hydrangeas are plants that are native in the South, the Midwest, as well as southern New England. These shrugs have the capabilities to grow up to at least five feet high, and are favorites by florists and flora enthusiasts. This is mainly because of large and showy flowers, which may also be reason enough to catch the attention of cats.
How Toxic are Hydrangeas?
Unlike lilies where the reasons of its toxicity are unknown, hydrangeas are known to contain cyanogenic glycosides. By its name alone, it can be said that this is a deadly substance which is made deadlier as it is consumed. When consumed, the substance travels to the stomach and comes in contact with the stomach acids. When this occurs, cyanide is created.
Compared to lilies, studies show that hydrangea poisoning in cats is not as fatal. However, prolonged poisoning may still extremely weaken a cat and can be fatal if not treated.
Hydrangeas Toxicity Cats Symptoms
The symptoms that cats have after ingesting hydrangeas are more or less the same as when these have ingested other toxic plants. The following are some symptoms that cats can display when poisoned by hydrangeas:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Depression
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Cyanide poisoning may be rare, but it is a possibility.
- Coma
- Seizures
- Constipation
- Weakness
Treatment of Hydrangea Poisoning in Cats
When cats are poisoned it is best to call a veterinarian as soon as possible. It is important to rush the cat to the vet within 18 hours of ingesting the plant so that there is still hope before kidney failure may happen.
- If the cat has just ingested portions of the plant, it is best to induce vomiting so that the offending toxic plant is expelled.
- Providing activated charcoal to the feline may help in removing the toxicity from the stomach of the cat and save the cat from further poisoning.
- Possible transfusions of fluid will help in order to save the cat and its kidney from getting affected.
- Treatment given by the veterinarian is best as he or she will know the extent of the poisoning and what methods can be done to relieve it.
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