Chrysanthemum / Mums

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Vomiting This is one of the most common signs of ingestion. The plant contains lactones and other irritants that inflame the stomach lining.
2. 2
   Diarrhea Often accompanies vomiting as a result of the plant's irritating properties passing through the intestinal tract.Incoordination (Ataxia)
3. 3
   Incoordination (wobbly gait or stumbling) This symptom is linked to pyrethrins, a natural insecticide found in the plant. While these compounds are used in some flea medications, cats are particularly sensitive to them, and ingestion can affect the nervous system causing unsteadiness.Excessive Drooling (Hypersalivation)
4. 4
   Increased salivation (Ptyalism) This can be a direct response to the bitter taste of the plant or a sign of nausea and oral irritation caused by the toxic compounds.Loss of Appetite (Anorexia)
5. 5
   Inappetence (Refusal to eat) The cat may refuse food due to nausea or abdominal discomfort following ingestion.
6. 6
   Dermatitis (Skin irritation) While less commonly highlighted than GI symptoms for ingestion, contact with the plant can sometimes cause skin irritation or rashes due to its chemical properties.(Noted generally for "Pom flowers," a category including chrysanthemums).

Important notes

Chrysanthemums are common flowering plants in autumn, but they are not safe for cats. They contain natural insecticidal compounds such as pyrethrins, as well as other plant chemicals that can irritate the skin and digestive tract. Cats are especially sensitive to these compounds because their livers are not very good at breaking down certain plant toxins. If a cat bites or eats chrysanthemums, it may develop vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, loss of appetite, or lethargy. The risk does not only come from ingestion. Repeated contact with chrysanthemum sap may also irritate a cat’s skin, causing redness, itching, or dermatitis. If you have cats at home, keep chrysanthemums away from them and prevent them from chewing or prolonged contact with the plant.

• Symptoms: Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain from ingestion; skin redness, dermatitis, and itching from sap contact; incoordination (ataxia) in more significant exposures.
• Sap contact is also a risk: Cats that rub against the plant or groom themselves after contact may develop skin or GI symptoms without directly eating the plant.
• Action: Keep Chrysanthemums out of reach. Contact a vet if a cat has ingested any part of the plant or develops significant skin irritation.