Yes, avocado plants are mildly toxic to cats.
Persea americana, or avocado, are evergreen trees that bear delicious fruits of the same name. Originally native to Mexico and Central America, these plants are now cultivated around the world and are highly regarded for their edible produce. They can come in various shapes (pear, egg, or sphere) and colours (green, brown, purple, or black).
An avocado plant does not cause fatal effects to cats, but it has the ability to cause other conditions due to the persin in it. This compound is found not only in the fruit, but also in its leaves, seeds, and bark. When eaten by adult cats, symptoms such as upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea may manifest. Pancreatitis may also occur due to its high fat content. In addition, those with sensitive stomachs (young kittens or senior cats) or existing ailments may develop more serious problems.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats an avocado plant: Your cat may experience complications after eating large portions of the fruit or plant. In addition, she may experience indigestion since her stomach isn’t capable of handling too much plant matter. When eating the fruit, she may also experience dental injuries, choking, or airway blockage if she tries to eat the hard pit.
Watch over your feline pet in a confined space. Get in touch with the veterinarian if you see her experiencing difficulty in swallowing or breathing. Or if your cat has high fever and increased heart rate. Also, remove any fruit or plant matter found on your cat’s hair, skin, or mouth.
In summary: If you care for a cat, you should be careful about storing avocado fruits and growing its plant. Check out the lists of ASPCA, PetMD, and Pet Poison Helpline before buying a new houseplant or bringing home a bouquet of flowers. They’ll help you determine which ones are toxic and safe for cats.
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