Is Black Hawthorn Toxic to Cats?

Cats are an important part of our lives and we want to keep them healthy and happy. As cat owners, we often wonder about the plants and trees in our homes and gardens. One such plant that has been questioned about its safety for cats is the black hawthorn. In this article, we will discuss the black hawthorn plant and whether it is toxic to cats or not.

What is Black Hawthorn?

Black hawthorn (Crataegus douglasii) is a shrub or a small tree native to North America. It is a member of the Rosaceae family, which includes other well-known plants like roses and apples. The black hawthorn tree is usually found in the western part of North America, from British Columbia to California, and typically grows in dry, rocky soils.

The plant can grow up to 25 feet tall, has a dense canopy, and produces small, white flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by red or black fruit, which is edible but not commonly eaten by humans. The black hawthorn tree is often used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance and drought tolerance.

Is Black Hawthorn Toxic to Cats?

There is not much information available about black hawthorn and its toxicity to cats specifically. However, the plant is known to contain certain chemicals that can be harmful to both humans and animals. Black hawthorn leaves, stems, and bark contain a compound called trimethylamine, which has been identified as a toxic alkaloid.

Ingestion of black hawthorn can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in cats. In severe cases, it can also lead to tremors, seizures, and even death. It is important to note that the severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the amount of the plant ingested and the size of the cat. Some cats may display no symptoms at all, while others may show severe symptoms even with a small amount of ingestion.

What to Do If Your Cat Ingests Black Hawthorn

If you suspect that your cat has ingested black hawthorn, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam, take a blood sample, and may also conduct other diagnostic tests like x-rays or ultrasound to determine the severity of the ingestion and to identify any potential damage to the gastrointestinal tract or other organs.

Depending on the severity of the ingestion, your veterinarian may recommend hospitalization, intravenous fluids, and medications to manage symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, your cat may require more intensive treatments like blood transfusions or surgery.

Preventing Black Hawthorn Ingestion in Cats

The best way to prevent black hawthorn ingestion in cats is to avoid planting the tree or shrub where your cat can access it. If you already have a black hawthorn tree in your garden or yard, make sure to keep a close eye on your cat when they are around the plant. Consider fencing off the area or using a deterrent spray to keep your cat away from the tree.

If you are unsure whether a specific plant is toxic to cats or not, it is always a good idea to do some research or consult with your veterinarian. There are many resources available online that can provide information about toxic plants and their effects on cats.

Conclusion

Black hawthorn is a native shrub or small tree that is often grown for ornamental purposes. While there is not much information available about its toxicity to cats specifically, the plant does contain certain chemicals that can be harmful to both humans and animals. If you suspect that your cat has ingested black hawthorn, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. The best way to prevent ingestion is to avoid planting the tree or shrub where your cat can access it and to keep a close eye on your cat when they are around the plant.