Maiden’s Breath (Gypsophila paniculata), also known as baby’s breath, is a flowering plant commonly used in floral arrangements. While this delicate white flower may look harmless, it can actually be toxic to cats if ingested.
Maiden’s Breath contains saponins, which are poisonous compounds that can cause adverse reactions in felines. This perennial plant is often found in gardens, bouquets, and landscaping.
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 your cat has eaten any part of a Maiden’s Breath plant, they may experience a range of symptoms. Common signs of Maiden’s Breath poisoning in cats include:
In severe cases, Maiden’s Breath toxicity can lead to dehydration, tremors, difficulty breathing, and even kidney failure. If you suspect your cat has ingested this plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.
If you bring your cat to the vet with suspected Maiden’s Breath poisoning, they will likely follow these steps:
Maiden’s Breath is native to Eurasia and has been cultivated for centuries. Its genus name Gypsophila means “lover of chalk”, referring to the type of alkaline soil the plant prefers.
Maiden’s Breath gained popularity in the Victorian era as a symbol of everlasting love and purity. Today it remains a favorite filler flower in the floral industry, valued for its dainty appearance and long vase life. However, its toxicity to pets is an important consideration for cat owners.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
