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Is the Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow toxic to Cats?

Illustration of Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow (Brunfelsia species) with green leaves and clusters of purple, lavender, and white flowers in a gothic architectural setting.

The Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow plant (Brunfelsia pauciflora), also known as the Kiss-Me-Quick plant, is a highly toxic shrub that can cause severe poisoning in cats if ingested. This ornamental plant is commonly found in gardens and landscaping in tropical and subtropical regions. 

While cats are not typically allergic to the plant, all parts of it contain poisonous alkaloids that can lead to life-threatening symptoms.

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow’s Toxicity Level

(Level 5) - Extreamly Toxic

If you notice poisoning symptoms, it's critical to seek immediate veterinary care or call the APCC 24-Hour Emergency Poison Hotline.

  • Level 1 - Minimally Toxic

    Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.

  • Level 2 - Mildly Toxic

    Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.

  • Level 3 - Moderately Toxic

    Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.

  • Level 4 - Highly Toxic

    Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.

  • Level 5 - Extremely Toxic

    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.

Signs of discomfort your cat might display

If your cat has ingested any part of the Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow plant, they may experience a range of concerning symptoms due to the toxic alkaloids present throughout the plant. Watch for these signs of poisoning:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Drooling
  • Coughing or sneezing
  • Difficulty walking or incoordination
  • Tremors or seizures
  • Agitation or restlessness
  • Changes in heart rate and blood pressure

Seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your cat has consumed any part of this plant, as the symptoms can rapidly progress and become life-threatening.

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Potential diagnosis your Vet may give

If you bring your cat to the veterinarian with suspected Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow poisoning, they will take the following steps to diagnose and treat your feline friend:

  1. Physical examination: Your vet will perform a thorough physical exam to assess your cat’s overall condition and check for any visible signs of toxicity.
  2. Medical history: Provide your veterinarian with information about your cat’s recent activities, including any potential exposure to the toxic plant.
  3. Diagnostic tests: Your vet may perform blood tests, urinalysis, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate your cat’s organ function and heart health.
  4. Supportive care: Treatment for Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow poisoning typically involves supportive care, such as intravenous fluidsmedications to control seizures, and monitoring of vital signs. In severe cases, your cat may require intensive care and hospitalization.
An illustrative banner depicting an anthropomorphic cat in a vet's office, alongside a call-to-action message that reads: 'If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance,' accompanied by a prominent button stating 'Find A Vet Near Me!
An illustrative banner depicting an anthropomorphic cat in a vet's office, alongside a call-to-action message that reads: 'If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance,' accompanied by a prominent button stating 'Find A Vet Near Me!

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Toxic Plants and Cat Safety: Frequently Asked Questions about the Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Plant

Q: Is the Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant harmful to cats?

A: Yes, the Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant is harmful to cats. It contains toxic compounds that can cause severe symptoms such as vomiting, seizures, and even death if ingested.

Q: What are the symptoms of Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant poisoning in cats?

A: Symptoms of Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant poisoning in cats include drooling, vomiting, and tremors. If your cat shows any of these signs, seek veterinary care immediately.

Q: How toxic is the Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant to pets?

A: The Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant is highly toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. Even a small ingestion can lead to serious health issues and requires prompt medical attention.

Q: Can cats recover from Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant poisoning?

A: Cats can recover from Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant poisoning if they receive immediate and appropriate treatment. The speed of intervention is crucial for a better prognosis.

Q: Is it safe to have a Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant in a home with cats?

A: It is not safe to have a Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant in a home with cats due to its toxicity. To keep your pets safe, consider non-toxic alternatives like Areca palms or Boston ferns.

Q: What should I do if my cat ingests the Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant?

A: If your cat ingests the Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately. Quick action is essential to prevent severe health complications.

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Plant: Historical Significance and Origins

The Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow plant is native to Brazil and has a long history of cultivation as an ornamental shrub. Some interesting facts about this plant include:

  • It belongs to the Solanaceae or nightshade family, which includes other toxic plants like deadly nightshade and jimson weed.
  • The plant’s unique name comes from its flowers that change color over three days, starting as purple, then fading to lavender, and finally turning white.
  • In some cultures, the Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow plant is associated with love and romance, hence its alternate name, “Kiss-Me-Quick.”
  • Despite its toxicity, the plant has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, although its safety and efficacy are questionable.

Further reading and sources

Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.

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