The lambkill plant (Kalmia angustifolia), also known as sheep laurel, is a highly toxic plant that can be dangerous if ingested by cats. This plant is not an allergen, but it contains grayanotoxins which can cause severe poisoning symptoms in felines.
Lambkill is commonly found in acidic soils of North America, especially in the eastern United States and Canada.
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 lambkill plant, it may experience a range of poisoning symptoms due to the grayanotoxins present. Common signs of lambkill toxicity in cats include:
Symptoms usually appear within a few hours of ingestion and can progress rapidly. If you suspect your cat has eaten lambkill, seek immediate veterinary care.
If you bring your cat to the vet with suspected lambkill poisoning, they will likely follow these steps for diagnosis and treatment:
With prompt treatment, many cats can recover from lambkill poisoning. However, ingesting large amounts can potentially be fatal, so prevention by removing this plant from cat-accessible areas is crucial.
A: Yes, the Lambkill Plant (Kalmia angustifolia), also known as Sheep Laurel, is highly toxic to cats. It contains grayanotoxins, which can cause severe poisoning when ingested by cats.
A: Symptoms of Lambkill poisoning in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, drooling, and low blood pressure. In severe cases, it can lead to tremors, difficulty breathing, and coma.
A: Even small amounts of the Lambkill Plant can be harmful to cats due to the grayanotoxins found in all parts of the plant, including the leaves and flowers.
A: If your cat consumes any part of the Lambkill Plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. Quick action is essential to manage the effects of the toxin and prevent severe complications.
A: Yes, Lambkill poisoning can be fatal if not treated promptly. The toxins can affect the heart and nervous system, making early veterinary intervention critical.
A: Yes, safer alternatives include Spider Plants, Boston Ferns, and Catnip, which are non-toxic and safe for cats.
Lambkill (Kalmia angustifolia), native to northeastern North America, has been known for centuries. Named for its toxicity to livestock, it was historically used by indigenous peoples for medicinal purposes. European settlers documented its presence and effects in the 18th century.
Today, lambkill remains a subject of ecological interest. Its ability to thrive in acidic soils and spread through rhizomes makes it a significant plant in forest ecosystems. While toxic, it’s valued in horticulture for its attractive pink flowers and evergreen foliage, finding use in gardens and natural landscaping.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
