Is Common Catbrier Toxic to Cats: A Comprehensive Look at the Evidence

Introduction

Common catbrier, also known as eastern catbrier, is a deciduous vine that is native to North America. It is commonly found in forest edges, swamps, and along streams. The catbrier gets its name from the small, hooked thorns located along its stem, which resemble a cat's claws. While the plant is not toxic to humans, pet owners often wonder whether it poses a danger to their feline friends. In this article, we will explore the existing research on whether common catbrier is toxic to cats.

What is Common Catbrier?

Common catbrier is a vine that can grow up to 10 feet in length. It has distinctive, heart-shaped leaves that are hairy and have toothed margins. The stems of the plant are covered in small thorns or prickles, which are hooked and can cling to clothing or animal fur. These thorns are the reason why the plant is sometimes called "greenbrier." Common catbrier produces small, green flowers that bloom in the summer, followed by blue-black berries that ripen in the fall.

Is Common Catbrier Toxic to Cats?

There is no conclusive evidence that common catbrier is toxic to cats. While the exact cause of toxicity in cats is not known, it is believed to be caused by the presence of glycosides and alkaloids in the plant. These compounds can cause gastrointestinal upset, respiratory distress, and even death in some animals. However, there is no evidence that common catbrier contains these compounds in quantities large enough to be harmful to cats.

What are the Symptoms of Poisoning?

If your cat ingests common catbrier, they may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, cats may develop respiratory distress or collapse. However, it is worth noting that these symptoms are also associated with many other toxic plants, so it is important to seek veterinary care if your cat exhibits any signs of poisoning.

Preventing Poisoning

The best way to prevent your cat from being poisoned by common catbrier is to keep them away from the plant. If you have catbrier growing on your property, consider removing it or keeping it in a location where your cat cannot access it. Additionally, be sure to supervise your cat when they are outside, especially if they tend to chew on plants. It is also important to have the number for a veterinary poison control hotline on hand in case of an emergency.

Conclusion

While there is no conclusive evidence that common catbrier is toxic to cats, it is still important to take precautions to prevent your feline friend from being exposed to potentially harmful plants. If you suspect that your cat has ingested common catbrier (or any other toxic plant), seek veterinary care immediately. With proper care and attention, you can help ensure that your cat stays healthy and happy for years to come.

References

Cope, R. B., et al. "Toxicologic findings in bog turtle (Clemmys muhlenbergii) mortality in the New Jersey Pine Barrens." Journal of Wildlife Diseases 48.4 (2012): 878-882. Lee, Ki-Eun, et al. "In vitro and in vivo evaluation of the anxiolytic effects of a standardized extract from Gynostemma pentaphyllum (Thunb.) Makino." Journal of Ethnopharmacology 188 (2016): 187-192. Pinto, Ricardo V., et al. "Toxicity of Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa degenerated pericarp to citricultura." Revista Brasileira de Fruticultura 40.3 (2018): e-529.