Is Saint Bernards Lily Toxic to Cats?

Introduction

Saint Bernards Lily, or commonly known as Easter Lily, is a popular ornamental plant that is typically found in households and gardens in many parts of the world. Its pristine white flowers often symbolize hope, purity, and renewal, making it a popular flower for Easter celebrations. However, despite its beauty, Saint Bernards Lily can be dangerous and even deadly to some pets, particularly to cats. In this article, we will explore the toxicity of Saint Bernards Lily to cats, the symptoms of poisoning, and how to manage toxicity in cats.

Saint Bernards Lily and its Toxicity to Cats

Saint Bernards Lily contains several toxic substances, including alkaloids and glycosides, which can trigger gastrointestinal disorders, kidney failure, and cardiac arrhythmias in felines. While these toxins are not harmful to human beings, they can cause serious problems to cats, especially when ingested. A study by ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center revealed that cats are more susceptible to the toxic effects of Saint Bernards Lily compared to dogs. The study found that ingestion of even a small amount of Saint Bernards Lily can cause acute kidney injury in cats. Therefore, it is essential to keep cats away from this plant and remove it from your house or garden if you have a cat.

Symptoms of Saint Bernards Lily Toxicity in Cats

The symptoms of Saint Bernards Lily toxicity in cats vary depending on the amount of plant material ingested. Ingesting a small amount of the plant may cause mild symptoms, while ingesting a large amount can be serious or even fatal. Some of the signs to watch out for include:

• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Excessive thirst or urination
• Seizures
• Irregular heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Coma

The onset of symptoms may start within six to twelve hours after ingestion and can last for several days. If you suspect that your cat has ingested Saint Bernards Lily and is displaying any of the above symptoms, you should seek veterinary care immediately. Quick intervention can save your cat's life.

Managing Saint Bernards Lily Toxicity in Cats

The management of Saint Bernards Lily toxicity in cats depends on the severity of symptoms as well as the amount of the plant ingested. If your cat ingests Saint Bernards Lily, the first step is to remove any remaining plant material from their mouth and wash their face with water. This can help prevent further ingestion of the toxin. If your cat is displaying mild symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea, your vet may recommend supportive care, such as giving fluids to prevent dehydration or administering medication to control nausea and inflammation. However, if your cat has ingested a large amount of Saint Bernards Lily and is showing severe symptoms, they may require hospitalization. In the hospital, your cat may receive intravenous fluids, medications to treat kidney damage or cardiac arrhythmias, and supportive care, such as oxygen therapy or blood transfusions. Hospitalization may last for several days until your cat's condition stabilizes, and they can be discharged.

Conclusion

Saint Bernards Lily is a beautiful and popular plant that has several toxic compounds that can be harmful to cats. If you have a cat, it is important to keep this plant out of your house or garden. If your cat ingests Saint Bernards Lily, you should seek veterinary care immediately. Remember, quick intervention can make a difference in your cat's life. Always supervise your pet and keep them safe from toxic plants.

References

• "Lily Toxicity in Cats." ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, 2021, https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/lily
• Washabau, Robert J. "Toxicologic Nephropathies." Canine and Feline Gastroenterology, 2nd ed., 2013, pp. 490-502.
• Raisner, Rachel M. and Jennifer L. Weir. "Ethylene glycol, lily and rodenticide toxicoses in the cat." Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, vol. 13, no. 10, Oct. 2011, pp. 735-742.