Why Poinsettia Could Be Harmful to Cats

When thinking about how to give a unique touch to certain corners of the house, one of the most common answers is probably to add plants of different species and sizes. The reasons can be many: they add vitality, help purify the air and bring color wherever they are.

However, when you also have cats as life companions, some of these seemingly harmless plants could threaten the planet. health of your fur. Even if you have chosen to leave it in a place where it is not within your reach, this will still present a risk, because felines are curious by nature and will try to reach them at some point.

Among these plants is the Poinsettia, better known as Easter flower . It is a species native to Mexico which, in our country, is sold in gardening stores and grown as an indoor plant. Because its dark red and dark green colors match those of Christmas, it is emblematic of this time of year and is usually purchased to decorate this celebration.

It is also called by other names, such as poinsettia either Inca crown .

But what is it about this plant that affects kittens? What symptoms might they have if they ingested it or came near it?

Genoveva Godoy, veterinary doctor (@mundogatos ), assures that poinsettias in general are toxic to felines. However, what can cause more problems is its sap, a whitish liquid substance found inside the plant’s stem and leaves.

The intensity of the poisoning can vary if the cat has only had contact with the plant or has directly ingested it, after biting it. According to the specialist, some of the effects that could occur are skin irritation, vision problems, weakness, excessive salivation, vomiting, diarrhea and general discomfort.

“Basically, it compromises the cat’s entire health,” says Godoy.

In case there is even the slightest suspicion that the cat has been exposed to this or other toxic plants, there are a few steps you can take to be safer. According to the veterinarian, the first thing to do is to ask yourself “if the cat usually nibbles on plants.” After that, you need to check them and see if there are any missing parts.

“We need to make it very clear that it is not normal for cats to vomit or have diarrhea. If this happens, we should be concerned. » he rocks.

Another step to take is to pay attention to changes in behavior, which can sometimes be very subtle. “If you were good at eating before and suddenly you don’t want to eat the typical churus, that’s a warning sign. Also if he starts urinating outside the litter box or if he no longer wants to play. All these changes in attitude mean that something is happening,” Godoy believes.

If these signs are identified early, the next step is to consult a veterinarian as quickly as possible so that he or she can analyze the kitten’s state of health and prevent the symptoms from getting worse.

“It is important to face it because cats are very good at hiding signs of pain and they are mistaken,” emphasizes the veterinarian.

And would it be enough to just place the poinsettia in a place in the house inaccessible to the cat? From Godoy’s point of view, this measure is not sufficient.

“Unlike dogs, cats always need to climb where they live. It’s an unnecessary risk to have a toxic plant, when there are other safe alternatives. “It makes no sense to hide it,” says the specialist.

This is why he emphasizes that “the motto of prevention is definitely not to have it”.

If you are looking for new plants for your home, it is advisable to ask a veterinarian which ones should be avoided at all costs because they are dangerous or fatal for felines.

“We should also do a review of those that already exist. “Responsible ownership means that we, as guardians, are able to create a safe environment for our cats. » Godoy sentence.