Hydrangea

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Respiratory Distress (Dyspnea), Rapid Breathing (Tachypnea), or Seizures Very Rapid (10–60 minutes after ingestion). · Because Hydrangeas contain cyanogenic glycosides, large ingestions can theoretically lead to cyanide poisoning. Symptoms of this include almond-flavored breath, brick-red mucous membranes (gums), tremors, and collapse.
2. 2
   Vomiting Acute (Clinical signs typically appear quickly, potentially within hours). · This is one of the most frequently reported symptoms. It occurs as the body attempts to expel the irritating plant material and toxins.
3. 3
   Diarrhea Acute. · Often accompanies vomiting. The toxins irritate the lining of the gastrointestinal tract.
4. 4
   Lethargy / Depression / Exhaustion Acute. · Cats may appear unusually tired, weak, or unresponsive. General "depression" is a common clinical sign noted by veterinary sources.
5. 5
   Abdominal Pain Acute. · The cat may show signs of discomfort when the belly is touched or may hunch over due to gastrointestinal cramping.Cyanide Toxicosis Signs (Rare but Possible)

Important notes

Hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.) is a popular flowering shrub that is toxic to cats. The leaves and flower buds are the main parts of concern, especially if a cat chews or eats them. Hydrangeas contain cyanogenic glycosides, including hydrangin. When these compounds are broken down, they can release small amounts of hydrogen cyanide. In most household cases, the bigger problem is stomach irritation, but large exposures can be more serious. A cat that eats hydrangea may vomit, have diarrhea, drool, or seem tired. Keep hydrangeas out of reach and clean up fallen leaves or flowers. Call a veterinarian if your cat eats the plant, symptoms repeat, or your cat seems weak or unusually sleepy.

• Toxic compounds: cyanogenic glycosides (hydrangin) in flower buds and leaves; saponins throughout the plant
• Mechanism: hydrangin yields HCN upon digestion, inhibiting cellular respiration; saponins cause direct GI irritation
• Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, drooling; large ingestion may cause weakness, confusion, and laboured breathing
• Flower buds carry the highest cyanogenic concentration — restrict access during blooming
• Symptoms are usually mild with minor nibbling; seek veterinary care if large amounts were consumed