Is Barbados Pride 2 Toxic to Cats?

Introduction

Cats are curious creatures that love to explore new environments and taste new things. However, as much as we love to spoil them with treats, some foods can be harmful to their health. One such food is Barbados Pride 2, a popular houseplant with beautiful flowers that are toxic to cats. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of Barbados Pride 2 to cats and what you can do to keep your furry friend safe.

Dangers of Barbados Pride 2

Barbados Pride 2, also known as Desert Rose, Adenium obesum, or Sabi Star, is a popular houseplant that is native to East Africa and Arabia. It is characterized by its thick, succulent stem and trumpet-shaped flowers that come in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and red. While it is a beautiful plant, it can be deadly to cats. The toxins in Barbados Pride 2 are concentrated in the sap of the plant, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain if ingested by cats. The sap contains a variety of chemical compounds, including cardiac glycosides, which are found in many other poisonous plants. These compounds affect the heart muscle, leading to a slowdown of the heart rate and reduced cardiac output, which can be fatal in severe cases.

Symptoms of Toxicity

If your cat has ingested Barbados Pride 2, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Difficulty breathing
• Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures

If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. The earlier the treatment, the better the chances of a successful outcome.

Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to keeping your cat safe from toxic plants. Here are some simple steps you can take to prevent your cat from ingesting Barbados Pride 2:

• Do not keep Barbados Pride 2 in your home if you have a cat.
• If you must keep the plant, make sure it is kept out of reach of your cat. Place it on a high shelf or in a room that is inaccessible to your pet.
• Keep an eye on your cat when they are outside and make sure they do not come into contact with the plant.
• Teach your cat to avoid plants by using deterrent sprays or placing aluminum foil or double-sided tape around the plants.
• Train your cat to stay away from plants by using positive reinforcement, such as treats and toys, when they exhibit good behavior.

Treatment

If you suspect that your cat has ingested Barbados Pride 2, time is of the essence. The longer you wait to seek veterinary care, the more severe the symptoms may become. Treatment for toxicity may include the following:

• Induction of vomiting to remove any remaining plant material from the stomach.
• Administering activated charcoal to absorb any remaining toxins in the stomach.
• Providing supportive care, such as IV fluids, electrolyte replacement, and medication to manage symptoms.

Conclusion

Barbados Pride 2 is a beautiful plant that can be deadly to cats if ingested. As a responsible pet owner, it is essential to be aware of the dangers of toxic plants and take the necessary precautions to keep your cat safe. By following the prevention and treatment tips outlined above, you can help ensure that your furry friend stays healthy and happy for years to come.

References

• Bruno, F., et al. "Non-cardiac glycosides meetings: introduction." Journal of Ethnopharmacology 252 (2020): 112640.
• Wagner, K., et al. "Toxicity of Desert Rose (Adenium obesum) in companion animals: a retrospective study of 46 cases (2007-2017)." Veterinary Record 184.15 (2019): 470.
• Wismer, T., et al. "Toxicology Brief: Adenium Obesum Exposure in Pets." Veterinary Medicine 103.8 (2008): 436-439.