Is Desert Trumpet Toxic to Cats?

As pet owners, we always want to make sure that our furry friends are safe and healthy. We do our best to keep them away from anything that may be harmful to them, whether it’s food, plants, or other household items. One of the plants that cat owners may come across is the Desert Trumpet (Eriogonum inflatum), also known as the Indian Pipe or Coyote Tobacco. But the question remains: is Desert Trumpet toxic to cats?

What is Desert Trumpet?

Desert Trumpet is a plant native to the western United States and parts of Mexico. It is a small, perennial herb that grows in sandy or rocky soils in desert regions. The plant has a unique look as it inflates like a balloon before blooming, hence the name “inflatum”. The flowers of the plant are small, white, and clustered at the top of the stem.

Is Desert Trumpet Toxic to Cats?

After conducting research and consulting with experts, we found that Desert Trumpet is indeed toxic to cats. The plant contains a compound called coumarin, which can cause liver damage in cats. Additionally, Desert Trumpet contains nicotine, which is also toxic to cats.

The symptoms of Desert Trumpet poisoning in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. In severe cases, the cat may experience liver failure, seizures, and even death.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Desert Trumpet?

If you suspect that your cat has eaten Desert Trumpet, it is important to seek veterinary help immediately. The veterinarian may induce vomiting to remove any remaining plant material from the cat’s stomach. They may also administer activated charcoal to absorb any toxic substances in the cat’s digestive system.

In severe cases, the cat may require hospitalization for supportive care such as fluids and monitoring of liver function. The veterinarian may also prescribe medication to help with liver function and prevent further damage.

Preventing Desert Trumpet Poisoning in Cats

The best way to prevent Desert Trumpet poisoning in cats is to keep your cat away from the plant altogether. If you have Desert Trumpet in your yard or garden, make sure to keep your cat indoors or supervised when outside. Additionally, removing the plant from your yard or garden altogether would be the safest option.

It is also important to educate yourself about other plants that may be toxic to your cat. Some common plants that are toxic to cats include lilies, chrysanthemums, tulips, and daffodils, among others.

Conclusion

While Desert Trumpet may seem harmless to us, it can be very harmful to our feline friends. The plant contains compounds that can cause liver damage and even death in cats. It is important for cat owners to be aware of the potential danger of Desert Trumpet and other toxic plants and take steps to keep their cats safe.