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Is Your Cat at Risk from the Angelica Tree?

Illustration of an Angelica tree in Ukiyo-e style

The Angelica Tree (Aralia spinosa), also known as Devil’s Walking StickHercules’ ClubPrickly Ash, or Prickly Elder, is mildly toxic to cats if ingested. While not typically associated with allergies, all parts of this deciduous shrub or small tree contain the poisonous compounaraliin that can cause gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms in cats. 

Angelica Tree is commonly found as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping in eastern North America

Angelica Tree Plant Toxicity: Level of Concern

(Level 2) - Mildly Toxic

  • Level 1 - Minimally Toxic

    Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.

  • Level 2 - Mildly Toxic

    Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.

  • Level 3 - Moderately Toxic

    Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.

  • Level 4 - Highly Toxic

    Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.

  • Level 5 - Extremely Toxic

    All parts of these plants are extremely poisonous to cats and can quickly lead to death, even with immediate veterinary care.

** Please note: Please note that toxicity level can vary based on the amount ingested and the specific cat. It's always best to keep these plants completely inaccessible to cats and seek immediate veterinary care or call the poison hotline if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant.

Indicators of potential illness in your cat

If a cat ingests any part of the Angelica Tree, it may experience various symptoms due to the toxic compound araliin present in the plant. The severity of the symptoms depends on the amount consumed, but common signs of Angelica Tree poisoning in cats include:

  • Hypersalivation (excessive drooling)
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Skin and oral irritation

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Potential diagnosis your Vet may give

If you suspect your cat has ingested Angelica Tree, seek veterinary care. Your veterinarian will likely perform the following steps to diagnose and treat your cat:

  1. Physical examination to assess overall health and check for signs of poisoning.
  2. Blood tests to evaluate organ function and detect any abnormalities.
  3. Urinalysis to assess kidney function and check for damage.
  4. Treatment may include inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, providing intravenous fluids, and offering supportive care.
An illustrative banner depicting an anthropomorphic cat in a vet's office, alongside a call-to-action message that reads: 'If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance,' accompanied by a prominent button stating 'Find A Vet Near Me!
An illustrative banner depicting an anthropomorphic cat in a vet's office, alongside a call-to-action message that reads: 'If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance,' accompanied by a prominent button stating 'Find A Vet Near Me!

Cat and Plant Safety: FAQ on the Angelica Tree Toxic Plant

Q: Are cats allergic to Angelica Tree?

A: Cats are not typically allergic to Angelica Tree, but the plant is mildly toxic to them. All parts of the Angelica Tree contain the poisonous compound araliin, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms if ingested.

Q: What are the symptoms of Angelica Tree poisoning in cats?

A: Symptoms of Angelica Tree poisoning in cats include gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea. The severity of the symptoms depends on the amount consumed, but other signs may include lethargy and loss of appetite.

Q: Which parts of the Angelica Tree are toxic to cats?

A: All parts of the Angelica Tree are toxic to cats due to the presence of the compound araliin. This includes the leaves, bark, and roots.

Q: What should I do if my cat ingests Angelica Tree?

A: If you suspect your cat has ingested any part of the Angelica Tree, seek veterinary care immediately. The veterinarian will likely perform diagnostic tests and provide treatment to manage the symptoms and prevent further complications.

Q: Is the Angelica Tree commonly found in gardens?

A: Yes, the Angelica Tree is commonly found as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping in eastern North America. It is valued for its large leaves and tropical appearance but is considered invasive in some areas due to its ability to spread by suckers.

Q: Are there any historical uses of the Angelica Tree?

A: Yes, the Angelica Tree has a long history of use by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, including treating rheumatism and inducing vomiting. The plant’s bark was also used to make a tincture for treating skin diseases. In the 19th century, it was introduced to Europe as an ornamental plant.

Angelica Tree Plant: Historical Significance and Origins

Angelica Tree has a long history of use by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, including as a treatment for rheumatism and to induce vomiting. The plant’s bark was also used to make a tincture for treating skin diseases. In the 19th century, Angelica Tree was introduced to Europe as an ornamental plant, valued for its large leaves and tropical appearance.

Today, it is still used in landscaping but is considered invasive in some areas due to its ability to spread by suckers

Further reading and sources

Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.

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