Portulaca, also known as purslane, is a flowering succulent plant that is commonly found in gardens, sidewalks, and even as a weed in lawns. While purslane is edible for humans and is sometimes used in salads, it can be toxic to cats if ingested.
Portulaca contains soluble calcium oxalates, which can cause oral irritation, pain and swelling of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested by felines.
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 Portulaca plant, watch for these signs and symptoms:
If you suspect your cat has ingested purslane, take it to the veterinarian right away. Your vet will likely:
A: Yes, Portulaca is toxic to cats. It contains soluble calcium oxalates, which can cause symptoms like vomiting, tremors, and excessive drooling if ingested.
A: If a cat eats Portulaca, it may experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Immediate veterinary care is crucial to manage these symptoms and prevent more severe complications.
A: Not all types of Portulaca are toxic to cats. While varieties like Moss Rose are harmful, some species, like Portulaca oleracea ‘Variegata’, are generally non-toxic but may still cause mild stomach upset.
A: Even small amounts of Portulaca can be harmful to cats. Ingesting any part of the plant can lead to toxic reactions, so it’s best to keep your cat away from it.
A: Portulaca poisoning can cause serious health issues in cats, though it is rarely fatal with prompt treatment. Quick veterinary intervention can alleviate symptoms and improve your catâs recovery.
A: If your cat ingests Portulaca, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early intervention is crucial to reduce the toxic effects and ensure your catâs safety.
Portulaca is believed to be native to Persia and the Himalayan regions. It has been used for thousands of years as a medicinal and edible plant across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa. The ancient Greeks used purslane to treat dysentery and intestinal worms. In traditional Chinese medicine, it has been used to treat infections and sores.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
