Jade plant is toxic to cats. It’s also known as Dollar plant, Lucky plant, Money plant, Money tree, and Friendship tree is a popular indoor plant that can cause vomiting, lethargy, ataxia, and bradycardia in cats when ingested. The primary toxins of the jade plant are unclear so the best way to deal with jade plant poisoning is by bringing your cat to the veterinarian.
What Is Jade Plant?
The jade plant or scientifically known as crassula ovata, is an evergreen, succulent plant that is endemic to South Africa and Mozambique. This member of the Crassulaceae plant family has tiny pink or white flowers and is extensively used as an indoor plant all over the world. The jade plant is an ideal houseplant due it only requires low maintenance care and can thrive in a variety of indoor environments.
The jade plant is characterized by its distinct thick, shiny, smooth leaves that grow in opposing pairs along the branches. The leaves have a deep jade green color, though some may appear yellow-green. When exposed to intense levels of sunshine, some kinds may develop a crimson tinge on the edges of their leaves.
Clinical Signs of Jade Plant Poisoning in Cats
Ingestion of any part of the jade plant may cause minor to moderate ailments in cats such as:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Depression
- Ataxia or loss of coordination
- Bradycardia or slow heart rate
- Dermatitis or skin irritation (from exposure to the jade plant’s sap)
First Aid and Treatment of Jade Plant Poisoning in Cats
In cats, there is no known remedy for jade plant poisoning. Plant poisoning in cats, on the other hand, will be treated accordingly based on the symptoms that your cat is manifesting. To eliminate the poisons from the cat’s gastrointestinal tract, your veterinarian may induce vomiting. If vomiting persists, your veterinarian may prescribe anti-vomiting medicine. It is also possible to administer activated charcoal, which is typically used to absorb toxins in the cat’s stomach. Intravenous fluid therapy may be required for cats that have become dehydrated owing to vomiting or fluid imbalances. Poisoning that is severe may necessitate more extensive treatment or hospitalization.
Other drugs may be also prescribed by the veterinarian as needed in your cat’s situation. In case of cat’s skin irritation, topical ointment or special medicated shampoo may be recommended by the doctor.
Recovery from Jade Plant Poisoning in Cats
The majority of cats can recover from jade plant poisoning in as little as twenty-four hours if symptoms were recognized and treated promptly. However, in severe cases of jade plant poisoning, this may not be the case. Your veterinarian can help you devise a recovery strategy based on your cat’s condition.
Prevention of Jade Plant Poisoning in Cats
If you have a jade plant at home, remove it right away. Cats are naturally inquisitive and clever so do not be complacent and assume that your cat will not be able to reach a plant. To be on the safe side, avoid growing any plants that are known to be harmful to cats in your home. Restrict their access outdoors to limit their exposure to plants around your area.
If you love plants but have cats at home, check out these lists:
