The Hercules’ Club, also known as the Devil’s Walking Stick, Prickly Ash, Prickly Elder, or Angelica Tree, is a large perennial plant that can be toxic to cats if ingested.
While not an allergy per se, this plant contains a toxin called araliin which can cause irritation and discomfort in cats. Hercules’ Club is commonly found as a decorative plant around walkways, patios, and gardens.
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 Hercules’ Club plant, they may experience various symptoms due to the toxic compound araliin. These symptoms usually appear shortly after consumption and can include:
If you suspect your cat has ingested Hercules’ Club, take them to a veterinarian promptly. The vet will assess the symptoms and may follow these steps for diagnosis:
For more information on treating plant poisoning in cats, consult with your veterinarian or visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control website.
A: Yes, Hercules’ Club is toxic to cats. Ingesting this plant can cause symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, and difficulty breathing.
A: Symptoms of Hercules’ Club poisoning in cats include vomiting, drooling, and difficulty breathing. Cats may also experience weakness and lethargy.
A: If your cat has ingested Hercules’ Club, seek immediate veterinary care. Treatment usually involves supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent further complications.
A: Yes, other plants like Angel’s Trumpet and Oleander are also toxic to cats. It’s important to keep these and other harmful plants out of reach of your pets.
A: To prevent your cat from eating Hercules’ Club, place the plant in an area inaccessible to your cat or opt for pet-safe plants. Providing alternative chew toys and engaging activities can also help deter your cat from chewing on houseplants.
A: If your cat shows signs of poisoning after eating Hercules’ Club, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prompt treatment is essential to alleviate symptoms and prevent serious health issues.
Native Americans historically used the bark of the Hercules’ Club tree for various medicinal purposes. They would consume the bark to induce vomiting, make tinctures for treating skin diseases and rheumatism, and even use it to treat syphilis.
The berries, when dried and powdered, were used to relieve toothaches and other body pains, as well as serving as a strong laxative for constipation. Parts of the plant were also used as a sialogogue to stimulate saliva production in conditions causing dry mouth and throat.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
