Is Golden Lace Orchid Toxic to Cats?

Introduction

The beauty of indoor plants cannot be denied, but as pet owners, it is important to be aware of the plants that can cause harm to our furry friends. Many plants are toxic to cats, and the Golden Lace Orchid is one of them. This article will discuss the effects of Golden Lace Orchid on cats and the necessary precautions to take to keep your cats safe.

The Golden Lace Orchid Plant

The Golden Lace Orchid, also known as Oncidium Golden Shower, is a popular houseplant that belongs to the orchid family. The plant has long and thin leaves and produces beautiful yellow flowers with brown markings. The plant is native to South America, but it is grown in many parts of the world as an ornamental plant. The Golden Lace Orchid is easy to care for and is therefore a desirable houseplant.

Is the Golden Lace Orchid Toxic to Cats?

Yes, Golden Lace Orchid is toxic to cats. The plant contains alkaloids such as glycosides, which are poisonous to cats. If ingested, the plant can cause numerous health problems ranging from mild symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea to severe symptoms such as kidney failure and death in extreme cases. Therefore, pet owners should avoid keeping this plant in homes where cats are present.

Effects of Golden Lace Orchid on Cats

The effects of Golden Lace Orchid on cats depend on the amount of the plant ingested and the weight of the cat. The following are some of the common symptoms of Golden Lace Orchid poisoning in cats:

Vomiting and Diarrhea

If cats ingest the Golden Lace Orchid, they may start vomiting and experiencing diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and may go away after a few hours. However, if the symptoms persist, it is essential to seek veterinary care.

Oral Irritation

Cats may also experience mouth irritation after ingesting the Golden Lace Orchid. The cat may show discomfort when eating or licking its paws. This symptom may last for a few hours or a few days.

Lethargy

Lethargy is a common symptom of Golden Lace Orchid poisoning in cats. The cat may become weak and unresponsive, and its physical activity may decrease significantly. If you notice your cat showing these symptoms after ingesting the Golden Lace Orchid, seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Acute Kidney Failure

In extreme cases, Golden Lace Orchid poisoning can lead to acute kidney failure in cats. This is because the plant contains toxins that can damage the kidneys. Symptoms of acute kidney failure include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and decreased appetite. If you suspect that your cat has ingested the Golden Lace Orchid and is showing these symptoms, take them to a veterinarian immediately.

Precautions to Take to Keep Your Cats Safe

The best way to protect your cat from Golden Lace Orchid poisoning is by not keeping the plant in your home. However, if you must keep the plant, take the following precautions:

Place the Plant in Inaccessible Areas

Cats are naturally curious and will explore their environment. This means that they may try to eat plants even if they are toxic. To keep your cat safe, place the Golden Lace Orchid in areas that are inaccessible to your cat, such as high shelves or hanging baskets.

Supervise Your Cat

Supervise your cat when it is in the same room as the plant. This will enable you to act quickly if you notice that the cat is trying to eat the plant.

Know the Symptoms of Golden Lace Orchid Poisoning

Knowing the symptoms of poisoning is crucial in preventing further harm to your cat. If you suspect that your cat has ingested the Golden Lace Orchid and is showing any of the symptoms listed above, seek veterinary care immediately.

Conclusion

Golden Lace Orchid may be a beautiful plant, but it is toxic to cats. It is, therefore, essential for pet owners to be aware of the potential harm that the plant can cause to their cats. If you must keep the plant, take the necessary precautions to ensure that your cat is safe. Always supervise your cat and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect that your cat has ingested the plant.

Scientific Citations

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). "Oncidium Species." ProQuest LLC, EBSCOhost,ezproxy.library.ryerson.ca/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bsu&AN=93540317&site=ehost-live. Accessed 18 Apr. 2022. Pet Poison Helpline. "Oncidium Orchid." ProQuest LLC, EBSCOhost,ezproxy.library.ryerson.ca/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bsu&AN=135905963&site=ehost-live. Accessed 18 Apr. 2022.