Saponins are found in all sections of the Madagascar dragon tree, and if swallowed, they can cause an adverse reaction in cats. It’s also possible that the plant stuff is indigestible to cats due to their lack of enzymes necessary for digestion. Even though the plant poses a little threat, you should be cautious if your cat gets access to a Madagascar dragon tree.
What Is Madagascar Dragon Tree?
Dracaena marginata of the Asparagaceae plant family is also known as Madagascar dragon tree, red-edge dracaena, and straight margined dracaena. This evergreen plant is native to Eastern Africa and can be grown as a tree or shrub up to 15 feet tall when planted in the ground. It is commonly utilized in gardens, but it is also commonly seen as an indoor plant in its smaller form.
Because of its tropical appearance and ease of care, the Madagascar dragon tree is a popular houseplant. The plant has a woody stem with long, slender leaves that look like palm fronds. The reddish-purple margin of Madagascar dragon tree leaves turns yellow before dropping off owing to old age when new foliage emerges.
Clinical Signs of Madagascar Dragon Tree Poisoning in Cats
If your cat eats a part of the Madagascar dragon tree, he or she may get mild symptoms with the potential for moderate sickness, though many cases may resolve without harm. The following are typical symptoms of Madagascar dragon tree poisoning to look out for:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain in the abdomen
- Appetite loss
- Drooling excessively
- Depression
- Weakness
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heart rate
- Staggering
First Aid and Treatment of Madagascar Dragon Tree Poisoning in Cats
Symptomatic treatment will be most likely provided by the veterinarian. The cat will most likely eject the plant matter on its own but should be kept under observation until the symptoms have subsided. If the cat is having trouble getting rid of the plant matter, the veterinarian may use hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting until all stomach contents are gone.
If the situation has become severe and your cat is suffering from dehydration, intravenous fluids and electrolytes will be required. Should this be the case, the cat will have to be put in a hospital for keen monitoring.
Recovery from Madagascar Dragon Tree Poisoning in Cats
A cat who has ingested a part of the Madagascar dragon tree is likely to recover quickly within 24 hours after ingesting the plant. Symptoms should disappear as soon as all plant material has been expelled from the cat’s body, and there should be no lingering injury. There have been no known animal deaths as a result of consuming the Madagascar dragon tree.
Prevention of Madagascar Dragon Tree Poisoning in Cats
The best way to keep your cats safe from plant poisoning is by keeping them engaged and occupied inside your homes. As a cat owner, it is a responsibility to familiarize yourself with harmful plants that can cause poisoning in cats.
If you love plants but have cats at home, check out these lists:
