Grapefruit is a popular fruit and commonly found in households. While it is generally safe for humans to consume, it is not safe for cats to eat. Grapefruit has been discovered to contain psoralen chemicals, which are harmful to cats and can be absorbed via the skin as well as eaten. All parts of the fruit are considered toxic, including the peel, fruit, and seeds, which can cause significant symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and photosensitivity.
What Is Grapefruit?
The grapefruit is scientifically known as citrus paradisi, a subtropical citrus tree known for its relatively large, sour to semi-sweet, somewhat bitter fruit. The interior flesh is segmented and varies in color from pale yellow to dark pink. Grapefruit trees are evergreen and grow to be roughly 16 to 20 feet tall, though they can grow to be as tall as 49 feet. It has glossy, dark green, long, and thin leaves and produces four-petaled white blooms. The fruit has a yellow-orange peel and is shaped like an oblate spheroid.
Grapefruit is a citrus hybrid that originated in Barbados and belongs to the Rutaceae plant family. It comes in a range of varieties, each defined by the color of the flesh of the fruit it produces — the most frequent pulp colors are yellow and pink.
Clinical Signs of Grapefruit Poisoning in Cats
Grapefruit poisoning can be fatal if ingested in a huge quantity. If your cat ingested grapefruit, symptoms that he or she may experience are the following:
- Depression
- Lethargy
- Trembling
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Photosensitivity
- Dermatitis
- Liver or renal failure
First Aid and Treatment of Grapefruit Poisoning in Cats
To manage poisoning symptoms, your cat will get supportive care. Vomit induction, the use of activated charcoal, and gastric lavage are some of the options of your veterinarian. Your cat will receive intravenous fluid therapy to prevent dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea. The vital signs and organ function of your cat will be closely monitored. Organ function may be monitored through blood tests and urinalysis. If necessary in your cat’s condition, medication to support liver and kidney function will be supplied.
Recovery from Grapefruit Poisoning in Cats
If your cat has been poisoned by grapefruit, he or she may need to follow a particular diet to recuperate from any damage to internal organs like the liver or kidneys. Grapefruit absorption or consumption should be watched for any additional signs that could signal long-term consequences or damage to your cat. The vet may require follow-up appointments based on your cat’s condition.
Prevention of Grapefruit Poisoning in Cats
It is not recommended to grow grapefruit trees within your property if you have cats living with you. You should keep your cat indoors to minimize the risk of exposure to grapefruit and other poisonous plants in nearby areas.
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