Is Skunk Cabbage Toxic to Cats?

Skunk cabbage, also known as Symplocarpus foetidus, is a wetland plant that can be found throughout North America, from Nova Scotia to Florida and as far west as Minnesota. It is known for its foul odor, which is similar to the smell of a skunk, and its large, cabbage-like leaves. While skunk cabbage has a long history of use in traditional medicine, it is important to consider its potential toxicity to pets, including cats.

What Makes Skunk Cabbage Toxic to Cats?

Skunk cabbage contains a range of compounds that can be toxic to pets, including cats. One of the most important of these is calcium oxalate, which is found in high concentrations in the plant's leaves and stems. Calcium oxalate is a crystal-like substance that can cause severe irritation and inflammation when it comes into contact with the mouth, tongue, or throat of a pet.

In addition to calcium oxalate, skunk cabbage also contains other potentially harmful compounds, including saponins, which can cause a range of digestive issues, cardiac glycosides, which can affect heart function, and alkaloids, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including trembling, convulsions, and respiratory distress.

What Are the Symptoms of Skunk Cabbage Toxicity in Cats?

The symptoms of skunk cabbage toxicity in cats can vary depending on the amount of plant material ingested and the severity of the exposure. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Salivation
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat
• Pawing at the mouth
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

If you suspect that your cat has ingested skunk cabbage or is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. In severe cases, skunk cabbage toxicity can cause life-threatening complications, such as seizures, coma, and respiratory failure.

How Can You Prevent Skunk Cabbage Toxicity in Cats?

The best way to prevent skunk cabbage toxicity in cats is to keep them away from the plant altogether. This can be challenging, as skunk cabbage can grow in wetlands, ditches, and other areas near bodies of water. However, there are some steps you can take to minimize your cat's exposure to skunk cabbage:

• Keep your cat on a leash when walking near wetlands or other areas where skunk cabbage may grow.
• Monitor your cat closely when it is outside, especially if it tends to explore or eat plants.
• Remove skunk cabbage from your yard or keep it in a fenced-off area that your cat cannot access.
• Train your cat not to eat plants by using deterrents or rewards.

Conclusion

Skunk cabbage can be a beautiful and fascinating plant, but it is important to be aware of its potential toxicity to cats. If you suspect that your cat has ingested skunk cabbage or is experiencing any symptoms of toxicity, seek veterinary care immediately. By taking steps to prevent your cat from coming into contact with skunk cabbage, you can help ensure that it stays healthy and happy.

Scientific Citations:

• "Poisonous Plants - Skunk Cabbage." Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://www.ansci.cornell.edu/plants/cat.html#symplocarpus
• "Skunk Cabbage." Pet Poison Helpline. Accessed October 25, 2021. https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/skunk-cabbage/
• "Skunk Cabbage Poisoning in Cats." Wag! July 28, 2015. https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/skunk-cabbage-poisoning