Foxglove

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Slow heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, seizures, or sudden death Can develop quickly and may occur before many warning signs.
2. 2
   Weakness, low energy, or collapse Can occur as the heart is affected.
3. 3
   Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or belly pain Can begin within hours of ingestion.

Important notes

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a tall flowering plant with bell-shaped blooms. It is highly toxic to cats. Every part of the plant is dangerous, whether fresh or dried, including leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots. Foxglove contains cardiac glycosides, including digitalis-like compounds. These chemicals act directly on the heart. In small, carefully controlled medical doses, related compounds can be used as heart medicine, but the gap between a useful dose and a dangerous dose is very small. For a cat, chewing plant material can quickly become serious. Early signs may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, or low energy. More serious signs include a slow or irregular heartbeat, collapse, seizures, or sudden death. Do not wait for symptoms if your cat may have eaten foxglove. Remove access and contact a veterinarian or pet poison helpline immediately.

• Main hazard: Cardiac glycosides can disrupt the heart rhythm and may be life-threatening.
• Toxic parts: All parts are dangerous, including dried leaves or flowers in arrangements.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, slow or irregular heartbeat, collapse, seizures, or sudden death.
• Action: Suspected ingestion is an emergency. Call a vet or poison helpline immediately.