Is Dogbane Hemp Toxic to Cats?

Dogbane hemp, also known as Indian hemp or American hemp, is a native plant to North America. This plant has been used for medicinal purposes by native people for centuries. However, there is concern about the toxicity of this plant to cats. In this article, we will explore the scientific research on this topic and answer the question: Is dogbane hemp toxic to cats?

What is Dogbane Hemp?

Dogbane hemp is a plant that is native to North America. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. This plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a stout stem. Its leaves are pointed and narrow, and it blooms in the summer with small pink or white flowers.

The plant gets its name from the fact that it was used by native people to make hemp fiber. However, unlike other hemp plants, dogbane hemp does not produce the famous cannabinoid CBD, which is used in the manufacturing of various wellness products.

What are the Concerns About Dogbane Hemp's Toxicity?

The primary concern about dogbane hemp's toxicity is its potential for cardiac glycoside toxicity. Cardiac glycosides are a group of natural compounds found in certain plants, including dogbane hemp. These compounds can have a toxic effect on the heart and other organs.

Ingesting dogbane hemp can lead to cardiac arrest, seizures, and even death. The symptoms of dogbane hemp toxicity in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, seizures, and difficulty breathing.

Cats are more susceptible to cardiac glycoside toxicity than dogs because of their smaller size and faster metabolism. Therefore, even a small amount of dogbane hemp can be lethal to a cat.

What Does the Science Say?

There is limited scientific research on the toxicity of dogbane hemp to cats. However, a few studies have been conducted on the toxicity of cardiac glycosides in cats and dogs.

A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine tested the toxicity of cardiac glycosides in cats and dogs. The study found that cats are more susceptible to cardiac glycoside toxicity than dogs. Even small amounts of cardiac glycosides can be lethal to a cat.

Another study published in the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association reported two cases of dogbane hemp toxicity in cats. In both cases, the cats experienced vomiting and diarrhea before experiencing cardiac arrest. Unfortunately, both cats died despite veterinary treatment.

Based on these studies, it's clear that dogbane hemp is toxic to cats. Even a small amount of this plant can result in fatal consequences.

How to Protect Your Cat

The best way to protect your cat from dogbane hemp toxicity is to keep them away from the plant. If you have dogbane hemp growing in your garden, consider removing it or fencing it off to prevent your cat from coming into contact with it.

If you're hiking or camping in an area where dogbane hemp grows, keep your cat on a leash and away from any plants they may be interested in sniffing or eating.

If you suspect that your cat has ingested dogbane hemp, it's essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Cats' bodies process toxins differently than humans, and time is of the essence when it comes to treating poisoning.

Conclusion

Dogbane hemp is a plant that is toxic to cats. Even small amounts of this plant can lead to cardiac glycoside toxicity and fatal consequences. As a pet owner, it's essential to be aware of the plants that can be toxic to your pet and take steps to keep them safe.