Fetter bush (Lyonia lucida), also known as shining fetterbush, is an evergreen shrub native to the southeastern United States. This plant is considered toxic to cats if ingested. Fetter bush contains grayanotoxins which can cause serious illness in felines.
It is commonly found growing in swampy areas, bogs, and wet woods from Virginia to Florida and west to Louisiana.
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 any part of the fetter bush plant, it can experience a range of uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms. Signs your cat may have eaten this poisonous plant include:
In severe cases, fetter bush poisoning can lead to cardiac failure in cats. Seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your cat has ingested this plant.
If you bring your cat to the vet with symptoms of plant toxicity, the vet will likely:
Your vet may diagnose grayanotoxin poisoning based on the cat’s symptoms, exam, and known ingestion of fetter bush.
A: Yes, cats can be allergic to Fetter Bush. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, sneezing, and skin irritation.
A: Yes, Fetter Bush, also known as Leucothoe or Dog Hobble, is toxic to cats. Ingesting any part of this plant can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling.
A: Symptoms of Fetter Bush poisoning in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, abdominal pain, and lethargy. Immediate veterinary care is recommended if ingestion is suspected.
A: To prevent contact, ensure that Fetter Bush is not present in your home or garden. Keep your cat indoors or monitor outdoor activities closely to avoid exposure.
A: If your cat ingests Fetter Bush, contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinary professional. Immediate medical attention is necessary.
A: Yes, Fetter Bush is commonly found in gardens and as an ornamental plant. It is important to ensure this plant is kept out of reach of cats to prevent accidental ingestion.
Native Americans, including the Seminole Tribe, historically used the strong, woody stems of fetter bush to make pipe bowls for smoking tobacco. The name “fetter bush” refers to how the plant’s dense growth can impede movement of humans and animals when growing in the wild.
While an attractive landscape plant with glossy evergreen foliage and fragrant pink flowers, fetter bush is not recommended for gardens where cats may have access due to the risk of feline toxicity. Stick to cat-friendly plants to keep your kitty safe.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
