Is Fetterbush Toxic to Cats?

Fetterbush, also known as Leucothoe fontanesiana, is a shrub native to the southeastern United States. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and spring flowers.

Potential Toxicity to Cats

Many plants can be toxic to cats, and it’s important for pet owners to be aware of what plants are safe to have in their homes and yards. Unfortunately, there is limited research on the toxicity of fetterbush specifically to cats. However, according to the ASPCA, the plant is known to be toxic to dogs and horses, and it contains andromedotoxins, which can be harmful to cats.

Andromedotoxins

Andromedotoxins are a group of toxins that are found in plants of the Ericaceae family, which includes fetterbush as well as other common ornamental plants like azaleas and rhododendrons. These toxins can have a number of negative effects on pets, including:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Seizures
• Difficulty breathing
• Coma

In severe cases, ingesting andromedotoxins can be fatal.

Symptoms of Fetterbush Toxicity in Cats

If you suspect that your cat has ingested fetterbush, it’s important to monitor them closely for symptoms of toxicity. Symptoms can vary depending on the amount ingested and the individual cat’s sensitivity to the toxins, but may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lack of appetite
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Coma

If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat after they have been in contact with fetterbush, seek veterinary care immediately.

Preventing Fetterbush Toxicity

The best way to prevent your cat from being exposed to fetterbush is to avoid having it in your home and yard. If you already have fetterbush growing in your yard, consider removing it or keeping your cat away from the area. Additionally, it’s important to keep all potentially toxic plants out of your cat’s reach, which may mean keeping them indoors or restricting their access to certain areas of your yard.

Conclusion

Fetterbush is a plant that is commonly grown as an ornamental shrub due to its attractive foliage and flowers. While limited research exists on the toxicity of fetterbush to cats specifically, it is known to contain andromedotoxins, which can be harmful to pets in general. If you suspect that your cat has ingested fetterbush, monitor them closely for symptoms of toxicity and seek veterinary care immediately if necessary. To prevent fetterbush toxicity, it’s best to avoid having the plant in your home or yard and to keep all potentially toxic plants out of your cat’s reach.