Dogbane hemp (Apocynum cannabinum), also known as Indian hemp or Bitterroot, is a perennial plant native to much of North America. While cats are not allergic to dogbane hemp, this plant is highly toxic to felines.
All parts of the dogbane hemp plant contain cardiac glycosides, which are poisonous compounds that can cause serious harm to a cat’s heart. Dogbane hemp is commonly found in open wooded areas, ditches, hillsides, and along streams.
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 dogbane hemp plant, it may experience various symptoms due to the cardiac glycosides present in the plant. These symptoms can include:
If you suspect your cat has ingested dogbane hemp, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian will likely perform the following steps to diagnose and treat your cat:
For more information on how your veterinarian may diagnose and treat dogbane hemp toxicity, visit the Pet Poison Helpline.
A: Yes, cats can be allergic to Dogbane Hemp. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, sneezing, and skin irritation.
A: Yes, Dogbane Hemp, also known as Indian Hemp or Apocynum cannabinum, is highly toxic to cats. Ingesting any part of this plant can cause severe symptoms and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
A: Symptoms of Dogbane Hemp poisoning in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, tremors, seizures, and difficulty breathing. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if ingestion is suspected.
A: To prevent contact, ensure that Dogbane Hemp 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 Dogbane Hemp, contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinary professional. Immediate medical attention is necessary.
A: Dogbane Hemp 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.
Dogbane hemp has a long history of use by Native American tribes for various purposes. The plant’s strong fibers were used to make rope, thread, and other items. Some tribes also used dogbane hemp in traditional medicine to treat fever and slow the pulse.
Despite its historical uses, dogbane hemp remains a significant threat to cats and other animals due to its toxic properties.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
