Photina Red Leaf

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling Rapidly, often within 10 to 60 minutes · While vomiting and drooling are common early signs of many plant poisonings, the presence of an almond-like odor on the breath is a specific and classic indicator of cyanide gas release.
2. 2
   Tachypnea (rapid breathing), severe respiratory distress, panting, and gasping for breath Rapidly, often within 10 to 60 minutes · This is a direct result of tissue hypoxia. The cyanide prevents the cat's cells from utilizing oxygen, causing the respiratory system to go into overdrive in a futile attempt to oxygenate the body.
3. 3
   Bright red (brick-red) gums, hypotension, and cardiac arrhythmias Rapidly, often within 10 to 60 minutes · A classic sign of cyanide toxicosis is cherry-red blood coloring2. Because the cells cannot absorb oxygen from the blood, the oxygen remains trapped in the bloodstream, turning the cat's gums an unusual, bright cherry or brick red.
4. 4
   Dilated pupils, sudden collapse, muscle seizures, convulsions, coma, and death Rapidly, often within 10 to 60 minutes · The brain is highly sensitive to oxygen deprivation. As cellular energy production halts, neurological collapse can occur after large ingestions. Death is possible in severe cyanide toxicosis but is rare in pets.

Important notes

Photinia Red Leaf (Photinia spp.) is a decorative shrub known for its bright red new leaves. It is mildly toxic to cats and not safe for them to chew. The plant contains chemicals called cyanogenic glycosides, especially in its young red leaves and seeds. When a cat chews and digests the leaves or seeds, these chemicals break down and release cyanide. Cyanide stops cells from using oxygen properly. Fortunately, the amount of these chemicals in the plant is usually low. A cat would need to eat a large amount to get seriously sick. If your cat eats a small amount, you might see drooling, vomiting, or low energy. Eating larger amounts could cause breathing problems and weakness. Because the red leaves might look interesting to outdoor cats, it is best to keep them away. Please contact a veterinarian if your cat eats a noticeable amount of this plant.

• Toxic compounds: cyanogenic glycosides (nandinin / p-glucosyloxymandelonitrile); young red leaves contain higher concentrations than mature green leaves
• Mechanism: the cyanogenic glycoside releases HCN via beta-glucosidase, inhibiting cellular respiration at high doses
• Symptoms: drooling, vomiting, lethargy with minor ingestion; heavy ingestion may cause laboured breathing and weakness
• The attractive red foliage may make this shrub appealing to cats outdoors
• Contact your vet if your cat ingests a significant amount of leaves