The stinking chamomile plant, also known as mayweed, dog fennel, or poison daisy, is toxic to cats if ingested. This bushy annual weed contains several compounds that can cause moderate to severe reactions in felines.
Stinking chamomile commonly grows in disturbed soils, farmland, roadsides, and unmanaged areas across North America.
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.
Ingesting any part of the stinking chamomile plant can lead to a range of symptoms in cats:
If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms after potential exposure to stinking chamomile, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Your veterinarian will likely diagnose stinking chamomile toxicity in your cat through the following steps:
Based on the cat’s symptoms and test results, the vet may diagnose toxicity from ingesting stinking chamomile. Treatment will focus on removing any remaining plant matter, controlling symptoms, and supporting the cat’s recovery.
A: Yes, the Stinking Chamomile plant is harmful to cats. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, if ingested by your cat.
A: Symptoms of Stinking Chamomile poisoning in cats include vomiting, drooling, and skin irritation. If your cat shows these signs, it’s important to seek veterinary care promptly.
A: The Stinking Chamomile plant is moderately toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. Ingestion can lead to significant discomfort and may require medical intervention to manage symptoms.
A: Cats can recover from Stinking Chamomile poisoning with timely veterinary care. Early treatment is crucial to ensure a full recovery and to prevent any complications.
A: It is not safe to keep a Stinking Chamomile plant in a home with cats due to its toxic nature. Consider non-toxic alternatives like catnip or spider plants to ensure your cat’s safety.
A: If your cat ingests the Stinking Chamomile plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prompt action is necessary to manage symptoms and prevent serious health issues.
Native to Europe, stinking chamomile has spread across much of North America due to its prolific seed production and adaptability to various habitats. The Asteraceae family plant is an annual that germinates in early spring, producing small daisy-like flowers and foul-smelling, deeply divided leaves.
Historically, the plant had limited medicinal use, but its unpleasant odor and ability to irritate skin and mucous membranes make it unpopular and potentially dangerous for both humans and animals.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
