Yes, shamrock plants are toxic to cats.
A symbol of good luck, shamrock plants have three-lobed, heart-shaped compound leaves. The plant goes by many names: wood sorrel, good luck plant, or common wood sorrel. However, its scientific name is Oxalis acetosella. Growing predominantly in woodlands and shady spots in the Northern Hemisphere, the shamrock plant can bear white, red, or violet flowers.
Both the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and Pet Poison Helpline report that shamrock plants are toxic to cats. The plant contains soluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause salivation, tremors, and kidney failure in rare occasions.
What to do if your cat accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats shamrock plants: The bitter leaves contain soluble oxalate salts. When eaten, these bind with the calcium found in your pet’s body, and can lead to a calcium drop in her blood. If she eats a large amount in one sitting, acute kidney failure may occur. Similarly, long-term consumption of the plant may cause kidney stones to form.
Contact your veterinarian immediately. Take her away from the plant, and observe her in a confined space. Your cat may display stomach irritation such as vomiting, hypersalivation, and diarrhea. She may also manifest lethargy, tremors, bloody urine, and changes in her peeing, eating, and drinking. The gravity of poisoning depends on your cat’s size, how much shamrock plant she consumed, and other underlying conditions.
In summary: Don’t grow shamrock plants around cats, especially ones that enjoy munching on leaves. The oxalic acid and oxalate salts found throughout the plant make them harmful for pets. Aside from shamrock plants, discover which plants and flowers are toxic to cats by visiting ASPCA, PetMD, and Pet Poison Helpline.
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