Fleabane (Erigeron speciosus), also known as showy daisy, horseweed, or seaside daisy, is a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family that is native to North America.
While this pretty wildflower with daisy-like blooms can be a lovely addition to gardens, cat owners should be aware that fleabane is mildly toxic to cats.
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 part of a fleabane plant, watch for these signs of mild toxicity:
Most cats will only experience minor discomfort, but it’s always best to contact your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has ingested a potentially harmful plant.
Your vet will likely diagnose fleabane toxicity based on:
Treatment is typically supportive, including removing any remaining plant matter from the mouth, skin, or fur, and controlling vomiting and diarrhea. In most cases, cats recover quickly with no lasting effects.
A: Yes, cats can be allergic to Fleabane. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, sneezing, and skin irritation.
A: Yes, Fleabane, also known as Erigeron, is toxic to cats. Ingesting any part of this plant can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling.
A: Symptoms of Fleabane 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 Fleabane 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 Fleabane, contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinary professional. Immediate medical attention is necessary.
A: Fleabane is more commonly found in wild areas and along roadsides rather than home gardens. However, if you do have this plant in your vicinity, it is important to ensure it is kept out of reach of cats to prevent accidental ingestion.
Fleabane gets its common name from traditional use as an insect repellent, especially for fleas. However, there is little evidence it is effective for this purpose.
The genus name Erigeron means “old man in spring,” referring to the plant’s hairy stems and early flowering time. Native Americans used fleabane medicinally as an astringent and diuretic.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
