Everlasting pea or also commonly known as sweet pea and perennial pea is a flowering plant that contains toxic substances which can harm cats. The toxic principle found in everlasting pea is aminoproprionitrite. This toxin is considered to harm the cat’s body in two ways: first, by suppressing collagen synthesis which limits the ability of the cat’s body to mend muscles, tendons, and other fibrous tissue; and second, by hastening cell death in tendons and other connective tissues, such as those present in the heart.
All parts of everlasting pea are found to be poisonous for cats. In case of ingestion, your cat might experience vomiting, weakness, and seizures among other symptoms. Consult a veterinary expert right away to seek immediate medical attention.
What Is Everlasting Pea?
Also known scientifically as lathyrus latifolius, the everlasting pea is an herbaceous perennial climbing vine that grows up to 10′ tall and has gorgeous brilliant blossoms. The blooms of this plant appear on tall peduncles above the foliage in the summer.
This Fabaceae plant is endemic to Europe, but it is also planted extensively in North America and Australia. The flowers bloom in elongated clusters with pea-like flowers and a one-inch-long corolla and are available in a range of colors, including magenta-purple, rose-pink, white, yellow, and blue. Everlasting pea leaves are pinnately divided and alternate, with two or more leaflets and a terminal tendril on each.
Clinical Signs of Everlasting Pea Poisoning in Cats
The neurological system is largely affected by everlasting pea poisoning, which may or may not emerge immediately after intake. Symptoms of everlasting pea poisoning include:
First Aid and Treatment of Everlasting Pea Poisoning in Cats
Plant poisoning is frequently treated with supportive intravenous fluid and nutritional therapy. To eliminate the poison from your cat’s gastrointestinal tract, your veterinarian may induce vomiting. Activated charcoal can also help your cat’s stomach absorb the poison. If your cat is vomiting frequently, your veterinarian may prescribe anti-vomiting medication. To treat seizures and other symptoms, various drugs may be recommended.
Poisoning may become a severe case if your cat has consumed large amounts of the everlasting pea or if he has consumed the plant continuously for several days. If your cat has suffered organ damage, treatment may be more intensive, depending on the symptoms your cat is manifesting.
Recovery from Everlasting Pea Poisoning in Cats
Most mild cases of everlasting pea plant poisoning have high chances of survival with symptoms fading away within 24 hours. In severe cases, full recovery depends on your cat’s general health condition prior to poisoning, the extremities of the symptoms he or she is experiencing, and how prompt he or she received veterinary treatment.
Prevention of Everlasting Pea Poisoning in Cats
Chances of exposure to everlasting pea and other toxic plants may be reduced by keeping your cats safe inside your home. Keep them occupied and engaged indoors to minimize their outdoor activities. Be a responsible cat parent by keeping yourself informed about what is dangerous to felines.
If you love plants but have cats at home, check out these lists:
