Plums contain cyanide, which makes them hazardous to cats. Plum poisoning occurs when your cat consumes any part of a plum fruit or shrub. The plum’s stems, leaves, and seeds contain cyanide, a highly toxic toxin. Plums are deadly to cats at any time of year, but they’re especially dangerous when they’re wilting. This is because the toxin concentrations are higher when the plant is wilting.
What Is Plum?
Scientifically known as Prunus domestica, plums are a sweet, juicy fruit with a lot of flavors, but cats should keep these purple-red fruits, as well as their stalks and leaves, away from them. Cyanide is a poison found in the seeds, leaves, and stems of the plant that can cause vomiting, panting, shock, and death if not treated.
The plum fruit’s flavor ranges from sweet to tart, with the skin being particularly tart. It’s delicious and may be eaten straight from the tree or used in jams and other recipes. Plum wine can be made by fermenting plum juice. Plum jerkum is a cider-like alcoholic beverage prepared from plums in central England. Saladito or salao are dried, salty plums that are eaten as a snack.
Clinical Signs of Plum Poisoning in Cats
It’s critical to learn how to recognize the indications of plum poisoning so you can get your cat care as soon as possible if he becomes ill. The following are some of the most typical signs you may notice:
- Dilated pupils
- Breathing problems
- Excessive panting
- Vomiting
- Shock
- Bright red mucous membranes, especially the gums
First Aid and Treatment of Plum Poisoning in Cats
Because cyanide poisoning can be lethal, the veterinarian must act fast. He might start by inhaling 0.3 mL of amyl nitrate, although this is usually reserved for emergency cases.
Sodium nitrite, which is given to your cat through an IV, is used to treat cyanide poisoning. After that, the vet can either switch the IV to inject sodium thiosulfate, a cyanide antidote, or he can give the drug orally.
Treatment for cyanide poisoning can be dangerous, and many cats may endure unpleasant side effects such as severe vomiting and low blood pressure. Throughout therapy, the doctor and his staff will keep a close eye on your cat to notice any signals of danger, such as a quick drop in blood pressure.
Recovery from Plum Poisoning in Cats
Because cyanide is such a severe poison, the sooner you get your cat’s help, the greater his chances of recovering completely. Following treatment, your cat may need to stay with the vet to be closely observed.
Once you’ve brought your cat home, keep him in a quiet and comfortable place. You should see your veterinarian and check if you need to make any changes to your cat’s food for the next several days. Treatment can be painful, and your cat’s stomach may be sensitive for several days thereafter.
Prevention of Plum Poisoning in Cats
Keep away plums from your cat’s reach. Dispose the unused parts of the fruit properly and make sure that your cat will not have access to it. Keeping your cats indoors will also lessen the chances of getting in contact with toxic plants in your area.
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