Fleabane, also known as Showy Daisy, Horseweed, and Seaside Daisy, is a flowering plant that is commonly used to keep fleas away from yards and gardens. While fleabane is generally good to humans, it can be harmful to some animals, such as cats.
Fleabane’s exact poisonous principle is unknown, however, it is thought to contain irritants that can induce gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation in cats. While fleabane poisoning might be unpleasant and distressing for your cat, it is usually not lethal.
What Is Fleabane or Erigon?
Fleabane or scientifically known as erigeron speciosus is a genus of roughly 200 annual, biennial, and perennial herbs native to temperate regions of the world. Some species are grown as border or rock garden ornamentals. The ray flowers are yellow, purple, pink, or white, and the disk flowers of the single or clustered flower heads are yellow. Some species have short stems and basal leaves, while others have taller stems and alternately lobed, toothed, or hairy leaves. Fleabane has some features similar to the common daisy as they both belong to the Asteraceae family.
Clinical Signs of Fleabane or Erigon Poisoning in Cats
The symptoms may be different for each cat considering the quantity of fleabane consumed. If your cat has ingested a part of fleabane, he or she may display symptoms such as:
- Nausea
- Mild vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Hypersalivation
- Oral irritation
First Aid and Treatment of Fleabane or Erigon Poisoning in Cats
Because fleabane poisoning is generally mild and rarely fatal, therapy will be supportive and geared toward alleviating your cat’s symptoms. Any remaining fleabane in your cat’s mouth should be removed quickly, and your vet may flush your cat’s mouth with fluid to remove any residue.
The vet may opt to induce vomit or use activated charcoal as he may deem necessary in your cat’s condition. Medications to ease other symptoms that your cat is experiencing may also be prescribed by the veterinarian.
Recovery from Fleabane or Erigon Poisoning in Cats
After a few hours of treatment, your cat should begin to feel better, and within 24 hours, he or she should be totally recovered. The vet may urge you to encourage your cat to consume extra water so that his or her stomach can continue to clear. Once home, you should let your cat rest as he or she may still be bothered by the poisoning experience.
Prevention of Fleabane or Erigon Poisoning in Cats
It may be beneficial to plant fleabanes in your gardens however this should be discouraged if you have feline companions in your household. Keep your cats indoors to reduce the chance of encountering fleabane and other harmful plants in your area.
If you love plants but have cats at home, check out these lists:
