Klamath weed, also known as St. John’s wort or goatweed, is a perennial plant in the Clusiaceae family that can be highly toxic to cats if ingested. This plant contains a toxic principle called hypericin, which can cause severe photosensitization (sun sensitivity) and contact dermatitis in cats.
Klamath weed is commonly found in fields, meadows, and along roadsides throughout North America.
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 Klamath weed, it may experience various symptoms due to the plant’s toxicity. These symptoms can include:
In severe cases, the cat may develop more serious complications, such as liver damage or even death.
If you suspect your cat has ingested Klamath weed, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian will likely follow these steps to diagnose and treat your cat:
A: Yes, the Klamath Weed Plant (Hypericum perforatum), also known as St. John’s Wort, is toxic to cats. It contains hypericin, which can cause serious health issues in felines.
A: Cats that ingest the Klamath Weed Plant may show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight), and lethargy. Skin irritation may also occur if they are exposed to sunlight after ingestion.
A: Even small amounts of the Klamath Weed Plant can be harmful to cats. The toxicity primarily affects their digestive system and skin if they are exposed to sunlight.
A: If your cat consumes any part of the Klamath Weed Plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. They may recommend treatments to reduce the absorption of toxins and manage symptoms.
A: While Klamath Weed poisoning is rarely fatal, it can cause significant discomfort and photosensitivity in cats. Early veterinary treatment is essential to prevent complications.
A: Yes, some safer alternatives include Marigolds, Chamomile, and Lavender, which are non-toxic and safe for cats in gardens and homes.
Klamath weed, or St. John’s wort, native to Europe, was introduced to North America in the late 1600s. By the early 1900s, it had spread to western rangelands, becoming a major pest. Its toxicity to livestock and ability to displace native plants made it a significant ecological and economic threat.
In 1944, the Chrysolina beetle was imported from Australia to control Klamath weed, marking North America’s first biological weed control attempt. This effort was largely successful, significantly reducing Klamath weed populations. Today, the plant is both a controlled weed and a popular herbal remedy for depression.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
