The rock moss, also known as moss rose, wild portulaca, purslane, pigwee, or pusley, is a common garden plant that can be toxic to cats if ingested. This plant, scientifically named Portulaca oleracea, is part of the Portulacaceae family and contains soluble calcium oxalates which are harmful to felines.
Rock moss is often used as an ornamental annual flower and can be found in gardens across various regions.
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.
Ingestion of the rock moss plant can lead to various symptoms in cats, indicating potential toxicity. Some of the most common signs that your feline friend may exhibit include:
It is crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention if you suspect your cat has consumed any part of the rock moss plant, as it can lead to severe complications such as kidney failure if left untreated.
If you bring your cat to the veterinarian suspecting rock moss poisoning, they will likely follow these steps to diagnose the issue:
A: Yes, Portulaca oleracea (commonly known as purslane or rock moss) is poisonous to cats due to its soluble calcium oxalates. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, kidney failure.
A: When a cat consumes rock moss, symptoms like oral irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea may appear within hours. In more severe cases, the calcium oxalates can lead to muscle weakness and even tremors.
A: While rare, consuming large amounts of Portulaca oleracea can be fatal to cats due to the high concentration of toxic oxalates. Immediate veterinary attention is critical if severe symptoms like muscle weakness or difficulty breathing occur.
A: To keep your cat safe, remove or place potentially harmful plants like rock moss out of reach. Opt for non-toxic alternatives such as cat grass or spider plants for a cat-friendly environment.
A: Not all moss-like plants are harmful; for example, sphagnum moss is safe, but Portulaca oleracea is toxic to cats and dogs. Itâs essential to verify the plantâs safety before introducing it to your home.
A: If your cat consumes any part of Portulaca oleracea, seek veterinary care immediately. Monitor for signs like vomiting, drooling, and lethargy, which can indicate poisoning.
Rock moss, or Portulaca oleracea, is an annual succulent plant native to South America. It has been widely cultivated as an ornamental garden plant for its vibrant, colorful flowers that bloom in shades of pink, red, orange, yellow, and white. The plant is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in various climates, making it a popular choice for gardeners worldwide.
Despite its aesthetic appeal, the rock moss plant contains soluble calcium oxalates, which are toxic to many animals, including cats. Ingestion of this plant can lead to severe symptoms and potentially life-threatening complications, such as kidney failure, if not promptly treated.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
