Did you know the mistletoe is toxic to cats? I didn’t know either! So let’s keep each other updated!
The Poisonous Mistletoe
If your cats eat the berries or leaves from this plant, your cat could end up with gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and neurological issues including low blood pressure, low heart rate, breathing problems, collapse and more. If enough is ingested, it could also lead to death. The berries from this plant contain polysaccharides, alkaloids, and lectins.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Abdominal pain
- Walking drunk
There are several types of mistletoes. There is the Phoradendron serotinum (the American Mistletoe) and Viscum album (European Mistletoe). The American seems to be less toxic, but it’s still toxic and dangerous and needs to be kept out of your cats reach.
If you think your pet has ingested mistletoe, contact your veterinarian for treatment and information.
More Toxic Holiday Plants
The berries and leaves are toxic. Leading to stomach troubles, lethargy and drooling.
The bulb, flower and stalk can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy and tremors.
A small bite can harm your pet. Watch out for vomiting, diarrhea, arrhythmia and convulsions.
Not deadly, but not safe either. Eating parts of this plant can lead to oral irritation and vomiting.
But how do you keep those plants out of your cat’s reach?
Place them somewhere your cats cannot reach. A high shelf, or somewhere high on a bookcase or something else. If you do have it on the table, but your cat doesn’t touch it during the day. Place it away in the bathroom or a closet if you can’t supervise your cat. Even if you fully trust him and have faith that he won’t nibble on it. Better be safe than sorry.
If you think your cat has taken a bite from one of those plants. Don’t hesitate to call your vet or local animal poison control.
Did you know the mistletoe was dangerous for your cat(s)?