Is St. John’s Wort Toxic to Cats?

St. John’s Wort is a herb known for its antidepressant properties, having been used for centuries as a natural remedy for depression and anxiety. However, as cat owners, it is important to know whether this herb is safe for our feline companions. In this article, we will explore the potential toxicity of St. John’s Wort to cats and what precautions we should take when using this herb around our pets.

What is St John’s Wort?

St. John’s Wort, also known as Hypericum perforatum, is a flowering plant that is native to Europe but is now found all around the world. The herb is known for its bright yellow flowers and the oil produced from its flowers is used to make a variety of supplements and medicinal preparations.

Benefits of St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for depression and anxiety. The herb is known to increase the levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain, providing a natural way to treat depression and anxiety. St. John’s Wort is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in treating skin irritations and healing wounds.

Is St. John’s Wort Toxic to Cats?

There is very little research on St. John’s Wort and cats. While St. John’s Wort is not toxic to humans, it may have adverse effects on cats. Some animal studies have suggested that St. John’s Wort may cause liver damage in cats when given in large quantities. It is recommended that cat owners avoid using St. John’s Wort in any form and consult with their vet before using any herbal remedies on their cat.

What are the Symptoms of St. John’s Wort Toxicity in Cats?

The symptoms of St. John’s Wort toxicity in cats are not well understood. However, some possible symptoms of toxicity in cats include:

• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Jaundice
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight

If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with St. John’s Wort and is exhibiting any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is important to contact your vet immediately.

Precautions When Using Herbal Remedies Around Cats

Cat owners should always exercise caution when using herbal remedies around their pets. Some herbs that are safe for humans can be highly toxic to cats. It is important to talk to your vet before using any herbal remedies on your cat, especially if your cat has any pre-existing medical conditions or is taking any medications.

Additionally, it is important to only use herbal remedies that are specifically formulated for cats. Human herbal remedies may contain ingredients that are toxic to cats, even if they are safe for humans.

Conclusion

While St. John’s Wort is safe for human consumption, there is very little research on the effects of this herb on cats. As cat owners, it is important to exercise caution when using herbal remedies around our pets, and to consult with our vets before using any herbal remedies on our cats. Until more research is done on St. John’s Wort and cats, it is best to avoid using this herb on our feline companions.

Sources:

• Pet Poison Helpline
• PetMD