The mayweed plant, also known as stinking chamomile or poison daisy, is a common weed found in fields, waste areas, and alongside roads throughout the United States. This plant contains several toxic compounds that can be harmful to cats if ingested, causing mild to moderate symptoms.
While not typically fatal, mayweed can cause discomfort and distress in 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.
When a cat ingests mayweed, it may experience various symptoms due to the plant’s toxic principles, which include volatile oils, bisabolol, chamazulene, anthemic acid, and tannic acid.
Common symptoms of mayweed poisoning in cats include:
In rare cases of long-term exposure, mayweed ingestion can lead to bleeding tendencies.
If you suspect your cat has ingested mayweed, it is essential to consult your veterinarian promptly. Your vet will likely follow these steps to diagnose and treat mayweed poisoning:
A: Yes, the Mayweed Plant (Anthemis cotula), also known as Stinking Chamomile, is toxic to cats. It contains compounds that can cause irritation and discomfort when ingested by felines.
A: A cat that ingests the Mayweed Plant may show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, and skin irritation. In some cases, your cat may also experience allergic reactions.
A: Even small amounts of the Mayweed Plant can be harmful to cats. The toxins in the plant can cause mild to moderate reactions, depending on the amount consumed.
A: If your cat consumes any part of the Mayweed Plant, contact your veterinarian right away. They may suggest supportive care to help your cat recover and prevent further complications.
A: While Mayweed poisoning is rarely fatal, it can cause significant discomfort and digestive issues for your cat. Early treatment is essential to avoid prolonged illness.
A: Yes, safer alternatives include Catnip, Lavender, and Basil, which are non-toxic and safe for cats while adding beauty to your garden.
Mayweed, native to Europe and North Africa, has been known since ancient times. Used medicinally by Greeks and Romans, it spread globally through trade. Its strong scent and toxicity to livestock made it both useful and problematic. By the 1900s, it had become a significant weed in North America.
Today, mayweed remains a subject of interest in ecology and agriculture. While considered invasive in many areas, it’s valued for attracting beneficial insects like ladybirds. Modern research explores its potential in medicine and pest control, balancing its role as a troublesome weed with its possible benefits.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
