Is Common Privet Toxic to Cats?

Cats are beloved pets who bring joy, companionship, and comfort to their owners. As cat owners, it is our responsibility to ensure their health and safety, including the foods and plants that we expose them to. One plant that is commonly found in gardens and landscaping is the common privet. However, before planting this shrub, it is important to know whether common privet is toxic to cats.

What is Common Privet?

Common privet, also known as ligustrum vulgare, is a deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub that is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia. It is widely used in landscaping as a hedge due to its dense foliage and tolerance to pruning. Common privet leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped. The shrub produces white or cream-colored flowers in the summer, followed by black berries in the fall. Although common privet is a popular plant in gardens, it is important to know whether it poses any threats to cats.

Is Common Privet Toxic to Cats?

Based on scientific research, common privet is toxic to cats. The plant contains a toxic substance called ligustrin, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea when ingested by cats. In severe cases, cats may also develop respiratory problems, lethargy, and kidney damage.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), common privet is classified as a plant that is toxic to cats. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center conducted a study on common privet and found that it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in cats, as well as other symptoms such as depression, decreased appetite, and tremors. The study also found that the berries of common privet are more toxic to cats than the leaves, making it even more important to keep the shrub away from cats.

Other sources also confirm that common privet is toxic to cats. The Pet Poison Helpline warns that ingestion of common privet can cause gastrointestinal irritation, abdominal pain, and dehydration in cats. The UK-based animal charity, PDSA, also includes common privet in their list of plants that are toxic to cats, stating that it can cause gastrointestinal upset, depression, and kidney damage if ingested by cats.

What are the Symptoms of Common Privet Poisoning in Cats?

If a cat ingests common privet, they may show symptoms of poisoning. The symptoms can vary depending on the amount of plant material ingested and the cat's size and weight. The most common symptoms of common privet poisoning in cats include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Decreased appetite
• Tremors
• Respiratory problems
• Abdominal pain
• Dehydration
• Kidney damage

If you suspect that your cat has ingested common privet or any other toxic substance, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian may recommend treatment such as intravenous fluids, medications to control vomiting and diarrhea, and supportive care to manage symptoms.

How to Keep Cats Safe Around Common Privet

If you have common privet in your garden or landscaping, it is important to take precautions to keep your cats safe. Here are some tips:

• Keep cats indoors when possible or supervise them when they are outside to prevent them from accessing common privet.
• If you have common privet in your garden or landscaping, place barriers or fencing around the shrub to keep cats away.
• If you suspect that your cat has ingested common privet, seek veterinary care immediately.
• Consider alternative plants that are safe for cats such as cat grass, catnip, and spider plants.

Conclusion

Common privet is toxic to cats and can cause a range of symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and even kidney damage. It is important for cat owners to be aware of the dangers posed by common privet and to take precautions to keep their cats safe. If you suspect that your cat has ingested common privet or any other toxic substance, seek veterinary care immediately. By being vigilant and informed, we can ensure the health and safety of our beloved feline companions.