It's springtime and time for gardening, and Easter is almost upon us. If you are a cat owner or cat lover, beware of the Lily!
It is very common to see Easter lilies this time of year as Easter approaches. These lilies are INSANELY toxic to cats, resulting in acute kidney failure that may or may not be reversible with timely veterinary intervention. There are many other types of lilies that are toxic, and the symptoms can range from vomiting to life-threatening heart arrhythmias (a disturbance in the heart rhythm). It's not only the flowers that can be toxic, but in some cases the leaves, and even the bulbs. Cats are not the only species affected either, so this is also important to know if you are a dog or horse lover.
The ASPCA has a terrific resource for toxic and non-toxic plants at:
http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/Plants.aspx
If you think your pet may have ingested a toxic plant, call your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately - time is of the essence!
It is very common to see Easter lilies this time of year as Easter approaches. These lilies are INSANELY toxic to cats, resulting in acute kidney failure that may or may not be reversible with timely veterinary intervention. There are many other types of lilies that are toxic, and the symptoms can range from vomiting to life-threatening heart arrhythmias (a disturbance in the heart rhythm). It's not only the flowers that can be toxic, but in some cases the leaves, and even the bulbs. Cats are not the only species affected either, so this is also important to know if you are a dog or horse lover.
The ASPCA has a terrific resource for toxic and non-toxic plants at:
http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/Plants.aspx
If you think your pet may have ingested a toxic plant, call your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately - time is of the essence!