Peonies are beautiful and fragrant flowers and add beauty to every garden or house. However, as a cat owner, one wants to ask a question, can peonies be safe with your cat? However, these flowers may be beautiful to watch; however, when consumed, they may be harmful to cats. We will see why petunels are unfriendly to cats, these are the symptoms to look out of them and how to ensure that your pet is not in danger.
Why Peonies Are Toxic to Cats?
Peonies (scientifically referred to as Paeonia officinalis) also have a poisonous element called paeonol that is present in their bark, leaves, petals and roots. Even though minor quantities may not have serious risks, the intake may still cause some unpleasant symptoms to your cat.
The toxin produces an impact on the gastrointestinal system resulting in stomach upsets and other digestive complications. The more sensitive system of cats is compared to those of humans, and even weak exposure to some compounds of plants may lead to adverse effects.
Peony Poisoning in Cats Symptoms
In case your cat bites or eats a section of a peony plant, the symptoms can be seen within some few hours. Peony poisoning manifested itself by the following common signs:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Salivating or the foaming at the mouth.
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
The symptoms may differ with regard to the quantity of the plant that your cat had eaten. Peony poisoning in the majority of cases is mild to moderate. Nevertheless, when your cat has consumed so much of it, the response would be worse and necessitate urgent attention by the veterinarian.
Emergency First Aid to Peony-eating Cats
In case you suspect that your cat ate some peony leaves, peony petals, and roots, do something immediately. The first step is to clean out the cat by scraping at least whatever plant material is left in its mouth or fur to avoid further consumption.
The second step would be to call your vet or call an animal poison emergency line which an animal shelter will provide you with. They are able to give instant tips depending on the weight of your cat, the symptoms and the amount of the plant consumed.
Never attempt to make yourself keep-up unless advised by an expert. Your veterinarian might suggest taking your cat to take him or her to the exam or hydration treatment or prescribe medication to help in stomach irritation.
The Prevention of Cats to become Poisoned with Peony
The most efficient method of ensuring that your cat is not exposed to toxic plants such as peonies is through prevention. The following are some of the steps that can be put into practice:
- Peonies should not be kept inside your house when your cat can get to the place.
- You can also keep your cat out of peonies by erecting barriers or raised planters in case you have them growing in the outside.
- Teach the family on harmful plants to pets.
The flowers with high toxicity (roses, sunflowers, or orchids) should be replaced with non-toxic flowers like roses, sunflowers, or orchids.
Always check your home and garden in case of any plants that can lead to any danger particularly at the time of spring when the peonies are fully blossomed.
Highlighting Camelias as a Substitute for Peonies
When you have the urge to fill your home with flowers, you can use non-toxic options that would add beauty, but not harm, to your home. Great options include:
Roses – not poisonous and would be traditional as well as to cats.
Gerbera daisies – very sunny, harmless to the full extent.
Orchids – beautiful flowers, which do not harm pets.
Snapdragons – innocuous and puss in the corner.
It is not necessary to be worried about the health of your cat when enjoying the beauty of the nature, you can use safe flowers.
Conclusion
Peonies might be pretty, however, they are not chewable and edible to cats. Paeonol, which is a compound present in peonies, is subject to vomiting, diarrhea, and general discomfort in case ingested. These flowers should always be locked up and plants that are cat friendly should be used instead. In case your cat shows any symptoms of poisoning, call your vet and ask him to call off.
Even the smallest measure will bring a lot of protection to your feline friend and make your house beautiful and safe.