Rhubarb, with its tart stalks and vibrant green leaves, is a popular ingredient in many desserts and jams. But when it comes to our feline friends, this plant can be a dangerous temptation. Let’s dive into the facts about cats and rhubarb, and explore why this seemingly innocent vegetable can be a serious threat to your kitty’s health.
What is Rhubarb?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a quick look at what rhubarb actually is. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is a perennial plant belonging to the Polygonaceae family1. Its edible stalks, which are technically leaf stems or petioles, are known for their sour taste and are often used in cooking and baking.
But here’s the kicker: while the stalks are safe for human consumption, the leaves are toxic due to their high concentration of oxalic acid and other harmful compounds. This is where the danger for cats comes in.
Can Cats Have Rhubarb?
The short answer is a resounding no. Cats should not eat rhubarb, period. Both the leaves and stalks of the rhubarb plant are toxic to cats. The main culprit? Soluble oxalate salts.
These compounds can wreak havoc on your cat’s health, especially if ingested in large quantities. It’s like giving your cat a ticking time bomb – not something any loving pet owner would want to do2!
Why is Rhubarb Toxic to Cats?
The toxicity of rhubarb for cats primarily stems from its high content of oxalate salts. When a cat ingests these substances, the oxalates bind with calcium in the bloodstream, leading to a dangerous drop in blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia)3.
Think of it like this: the oxalates are little thieves, stealing calcium from your cat’s body. And we all know how important calcium is for overall health!
This calcium theft can trigger a cascade of health issues, including4:
- Kidney damage
- Acute renal failure
In severe cases, hypocalcemia can even be fatal. It’s not just a minor tummy upset we’re talking about here – it’s a serious, life-threatening condition.
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Symptoms of Rhubarb Poisoning in Cats
If your furry friend has managed to nibble on some rhubarb, keep an eye out for these symptoms5:
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
- Muscle tremors
- Seizures
Remember, cats are masters at hiding their discomfort. So if you notice any of these signs, it’s time to act fast!
What to Do If Your Cat Eats Rhubarb
Caught your kitty red-handed with a mouthful of rhubarb? Don’t panic, but do act quickly. Here’s your action plan:
- Remove any remaining plant material: Carefully clear out any plant residue from your cat’s mouth to prevent further ingestion.
- Offer water: Give your cat some water to help rinse their mouth and alleviate irritation.
- Monitor closely: Keep a watchful eye on your cat for any signs of distress or unusual behavior.
- Contact a vet: Even if your cat isn’t showing symptoms, it’s crucial to reach out to a veterinarian or animal poison control center ASAP. Provide them with information about how much rhubarb your cat ate and when.
- Prepare for possible hospitalization: Depending on the severity, your vet might recommend intravenous fluid therapy to maintain blood pressure, protect the kidneys, and correct calcium levels.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If you’re a cat owner, it’s best to keep rhubarb out of your garden altogether. Think of it as creating a kitty-safe zone in your backyard!
Other Plants to Watch Out For
While we’re on the topic of toxic plants, it’s worth mentioning a few others that contain soluble oxalates and can be dangerous for cats:
- Clover (Trifolium): Despite its pretty shape, this common plant can cause severe hypocalcemia in cats6.
- Starfruit (Carambola): This tropical fruit might be tasty for us, but it’s a no-go for our feline friends7.
If your cat ingests any of these plants, the symptoms and treatment approach are similar to rhubarb poisoning. Always err on the side of caution and consult a vet if you suspect your cat has eaten any potentially harmful plant.
In conclusion, while rhubarb might be a delightful addition to our pies and jams, it’s definitely not on the menu for our feline companions. By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, we can ensure our cats stay safe and healthy. After all, a happy cat makes for a happy home!
Remember, when it comes to “can cats have rhubarb,” the answer is a firm no. Keep those rhubarb plants far away from your curious kitties, and everyone will be purring with contentment!
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-020-09715-3 ↩︎
- James L F. Oxalate toxicosis[J]. Clinical Toxicology, 1972, 5(2): 231-243. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.3109/15563657208991002 ↩︎
- http://vetfolio.s3.amazonaws.com/62/b9/b866876d427baa14bddae4c48e83/88-leepoisonous-plants.Poisonous%20Plants.pdf ↩︎
- https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/poisonous-plants/houseplants-and-ornamentals-toxic-to-animals ↩︎
- http://vetfolio.s3.amazonaws.com/62/b9/b866876d427baa14bddae4c48e83/88-leepoisonous-plants.Poisonous%20Plants.pdf ↩︎
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0944711308001311 ↩︎
- https://sciendo.com/article/10.2478/intox-2014-0014 ↩︎
