The Morning Glory (Ipomoea spp.) is a beautiful flowering plant that can pose a significant toxic threat to cats if ingested. While cats are not specifically allergic to morning glories, these plants contain toxic compounds that can cause various health issues in felines.
The danger lies in the plant’s indole alkaloids, including lysergic acid, lysergamide, elymoclavine, and chanoclavine. Morning glories are commonly found in gardens, on trellises, and as ornamental vines in many households, making them easily accessible to curious cats.
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 Morning Glory plant, it may experience a range of symptoms due to the toxic compounds present. The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the amount consumed and the individual cat’s sensitivity. Cat owners should be vigilant and watch for the following signs of Morning Glory poisoning:
In some cases, cats may also experience neurological symptoms due to the psychoactive properties of certain compounds found in Morning Glory plants, especially in the seeds.
If you suspect your cat has ingested Morning Glory, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian will likely follow these steps to diagnose and treat your cat:
A: Yes, the Morning Glory Plant (Ipomoea), especially its seeds, is toxic to cats. The seeds contain lysergic alkaloids, which can cause serious health issues when ingested by felines.
A: Symptoms of Morning Glory poisoning in cats may include vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, lethargy, and hallucinations. In severe cases, your cat may experience tremors or disorientation.
A: The seeds of the Morning Glory Plant are particularly harmful. Even small amounts can cause toxicity, so it is important to keep this plant out of reach of cats.
A: If your cat consumes any part of the Morning Glory Plant, especially the seeds, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial to avoid serious health risks.
A: While Morning Glory poisoning is rarely fatal, it can cause severe discomfort and disorientation in cats. Early veterinary intervention is necessary to prevent complications.
A: Yes, safer alternatives include Passionflower, Honeysuckle, and Sweet Potato Vine, which are non-toxic and safe for homes with cats.
Morning glory, native to tropical America, has been cultivated for over 1,000 years. Ancient Mesoamericans used it medicinally and in religious rituals. By the 9th century, it spread to Japan, becoming popular in gardens. In Victorian times, it symbolized love and affection.
Today, morning glory remains a beloved ornamental plant worldwide. Its fast growth and vibrant flowers make it popular in gardens. However, some species are considered invasive. The plant’s seeds contain LSA, a compound similar to LSD, leading to both medicinal research and recreational misuse.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
