Is Bishop’s Weed Toxic to Cats?

Introduction

Cats are curious creatures that often enjoy exploring and nibbling on things they find around the house. However, not all plants are safe for cats. One such plant is Bishop’s weed, also known as goutweed or snow-on-the-mountain. It is a popular ornamental plant that is often used in gardens, but it is important to consider its potential dangers to cats. Bishop’s weed (Aegopodium podagraria) is a member of the carrot family and has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes for centuries. It is a hardy plant that can grow in various temperatures and soil types. The leaves are green with white edges and it produces small white flowers in the summer. In this article, we will explore whether Bishop’s weed is toxic to cats and what symptoms to look out for if your cat has ingested it.

Is Bishop's Weed Toxic to Cats?

The short answer is yes, Bishop’s weed is toxic to cats. The plant contains a toxic substance called furanocoumarins, which is also found in other citrus and carrot family plants. This compound can cause photosensitization when ingested or when in contact with the cat’s skin. Photosensitization is a skin reaction to sunlight that can result in painful blistering and redness of the skin. It can also cause the skin to become extremely sensitive to sunlight, leading to further damage when exposed to the sun’s UV rays. The effects of photosensitization can last for several weeks. Ingestion of Bishop’s weed can also cause other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, it can affect the nervous system and cause seizures or tremors.

What to Do If Your Cat Ingests Bishop's Weed

If you suspect your cat has ingested Bishop’s weed, it is important to seek veterinary assistance immediately. Do not induce vomiting as this can cause further damage to the esophagus. Furthermore, if your cat has come into contact with Bishop’s weed and is exhibiting symptoms of photosensitization, keep them out of direct sunlight and seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. If your cat has severe skin reactions or is having trouble breathing, take them to the veterinarian immediately.

Preventing Your Cat from Ingesting Bishop's Weed

The best way to prevent your cat from ingesting Bishop’s weed is to keep the plant out of their reach. If you have the plant in your garden, consider fencing the area to keep your cat away. It is also important to supervise your cat when they are outside to prevent them from eating plants they shouldn’t. In addition, familiarize yourself with other plants that are toxic to cats and remove them from your home and garden. Some common toxic plants for cats include lilies, tulips, poinsettias, and azaleas.

Conclusion

Bishop’s weed may be a beautiful and hardy plant, but it can be dangerous to cats if ingested. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of toxicity and seek veterinary assistance immediately if you suspect your cat has ingested the plant. Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your cat safe from toxic plants. Keep Bishop’s weed and other toxic plants out of your cat’s reach to ensure their health and safety.

Sources

- ASPCA. (n.d.). Bishop's Weed. ASPCA. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/bishops-weed. - Hackett, E. S. (2018). Toxicology (R. W. Nelson & C. G. Couto, Eds.). In Small Animal Internal Medicine (6th ed., pp. 10–28). Mosby. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-41652-6.00002-X - Merck Veterinary Manual. (2021). Toxicity of Plants. Merck Veterinary Manual. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/toxicity-of-plant/overview-of-toxicity-of-plant.