Nasturtium, also known as watercress, is a flowering plant that is commonly found in gardens, hanging baskets, and as a groundcover. While this plant is not considered highly toxic to cats, it can still cause some adverse reactions if ingested.
Cats are not typically allergic to nasturtium, but the plant contains compounds that can be mildly poisonous to felines.
Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.
Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.
Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.
Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.
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.
If a cat ingests nasturtium, they may experience mild gastrointestinal upset. The most common symptoms include:
In most cases, these symptoms are self-limiting and will resolve on their own within 24-48 hours. However, if your cat experiences severe or prolonged symptoms, it is essential to seek veterinary care.
If you suspect your cat has ingested nasturtium and is showing symptoms of toxicity, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They may perform the following steps to diagnose and treat your cat:
A: Nasturtium is generally not considered toxic to cats. However, ingestion may cause mild stomach upset like vomiting or diarrhea in sensitive cats.
A: Watercress contains glucosinolates, which can be harmful to cats. Consuming watercress may cause symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, so it’s important to prevent your cat from eating it.
A: Nasturtium is considered safe for most pets, including dogs and cats. However, moderation is advised, as excessive consumption could still cause minor digestive issues.
A: Watercress and Nasturtium are different plants. While both belong to the Brassicales order, watercress is from the Brassicaceae family, and nasturtium belongs to the Tropaeolaceae family.
A: Nasturtium is not toxic to cats, but eating large quantities may cause gastrointestinal distress. Monitoring your cat for symptoms like vomiting or lethargy is important if ingestion occurs.
A: If you’re looking for safe alternatives to watercress for your cat, consider cat grass or spider plants. These plants are non-toxic and commonly enjoyed by cats without any harmful effects.
Nasturtium is native to South America and has been cultivated for centuries. The plant was introduced to Europe in the 16th century by Spanish explorers and quickly gained popularity as a decorative and edible plant.
Nasturtium leaves and flowers are often used in salads, garnishes, and as a peppery flavoring agent. The plant is also known for its medicinal properties, with some cultures using it to treat respiratory infections, skin conditions, and digestive issues.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
