Yes, coleus plants are toxic to cats.
A genus of annual or perennial shrubs, herbs, and succulents, coleus plants belong to the Lamiaceae family. They are commonly grown and sold as ornamental plants. Coleus scutellarioides is one of its most popular species, which originates from Southeast Asia and Australia.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists other common names for the coleus. These include bread and butter plant, country borage, East Indian thyme, Indian borage, Spanish thyme, and stinging thyme. Additionally, ASPCA reports that coleus contains poisonous essential oils. Your cat’s system can instantly absorb these harmful compounds, leading to a range of health complications. Dermal, gastrointestinal, and respiratory problems may develop upon contact.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats coleus plants: Contact your vet immediately, and take her to the clinic if needed. Plus, bring a sample of the coleus plant to help determine its toxins.
While waiting for your vet’s recommendation, take the coleus plant away from her. Also, remove any remaining plant material found on your cat. Keep an eye on her in a confined space, observing her for symptoms of poisoning. Depression, anorexia, and occasional bloody diarrhea or bloody vomiting may manifest.
Moreover, watch out if harmful chemicals were sprayed on the coleus plant or soil. These may cause hypersalivation, twitching and fitting, and difficulty in breathing. In some cases, your cat may display shock, collapse, skin and mucous membrane swelling, hypothermia, and depression. Additionally, monitor her for changes in her eating, drinking, and urinating.
In summary: Coleus plants have toxic principles that can harm your cat. Practise responsible pet parenting by not growing it on your property. Furthermore, check these lists from ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, and PetMD before bringing home a new houseplant.
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