Cats are poisoned by satin pothos. This poisonous plant is a common ornamental houseplant, putting indoor house cats at risk of overdose. Satin pothos poisoning in cats is a poisonous condition induced by ingesting the satin pothos’ root, stem, or leaves. The raphides, which look like needles, are threaded throughout the satin pothos. When eaten, these raphides create a severe burning sensation in the mouth and can possibly cause considerable throat enlargement, resulting in suffocation. If the oxalate crystals are digested, the needle-shaped crystals will precipitate in the feline’s kidneys, converting to a solid and eventually killing the cat.
What is Satin Pothos?
The satin pothos plant belongs to the Araceae family and is known by its scientific name, Scindapsus pictus, all over the world. The satin pothos is distinguished by the bright green leaves that are highlighted in white and splattered with it. This hazardous plant, often known as silk pothos, is a popular ornamental houseplant that puts indoor house cats at risk of intoxication. Satin pothos is a species of flowering plant that is native to India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo, Java, Sumatra, Sulawesi, and the Philippines. It is an evergreen climber that grows to 3 m (10 ft) tall in open land. In cultivation, the small blossoms are uncommon.
Clinical Signs of Satin Pothos Poisoning in Cats
The following signs and symptoms may persist for up to 3 weeks after ingestion:
- mouth, throat, lips, and tongue are all burning intensely
- excessive drooling, choking, and throat swelling
- swallowing difficulty or incapacity (dysphagia)
When the cat consumed bigger amounts, there will be a risk of developing the following symptoms:
- severe gastrointestinal distress
- Breathing difficulties are severe.
- shallow breaths, quick (dyspnea)
Although severe calcium oxalate poisoning can be treated, most cases result in irreversible liver and kidney damage.
First Aid and Treatment of Satin Pothos Poisoning in Cats
Although there is no known antidote for satin pothos poisoning in cats, prompt medical attention can save the cat’s life. Treatment before the kidney organs shut down is crucial to a good prognosis. The veterinarian may give the cat a prescription to make him vomit or give him an activated charcoal solution to bind with the deadly plant chemical and pass it out of his body in feces.
Intravenous fluids will be started as soon as the veterinarian believes the satin pothos toxin has reached the cat’s bloodstream and needs to be flushed out through the urine. Fluids may be given to your cat if he or she has been vomiting or has had severe diarrhea. Because satin pothos can irritate the throat, Kapectolin may be used to coat the inside of the throat and stomach.
Recovery from Satin Pothos Poisoning in Cats
The prognosis for cats with satin pothos poisoning is uncertain and highly dependent on the severity of the toxin. Cats who obtain emergency veterinary care have a better chance of survival than those who let the raphides reach their kidneys.
Prevention of Satin Pothos Poisoning in Cats
Remove all domestic plants and outdoor potted plants from the immediate area to avoid future satin pothos poisoning.
If you love plants but have cats at home, check out these lists:
