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Shamrock
Oxalis spp.
Shamrock plants (Oxalis spp.), commonly sold as ornamental houseplants and associated with St. Patrick's Day, are toxic to cats due to soluble oxalate compounds. These differ from the insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in Araceae plants — soluble oxalates are absorbed into the bloodstream, where they bind calcium and may affect the kidneys with chronic high-dose exposure.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: soluble oxalate salts throughout the plant — leaves, stems, and bulbs
Mechanism: soluble oxalates bind free calcium in the blood (hypocalcaemia); chronic exposure causes kidney calcium oxalate crystal deposition
Symptoms: drooling, vomiting, diarrhea; large ingestion may cause tremors (from hypocalcaemia) or kidney issues
The small clover-like leaves are appealing to nibbling cats — keep out of reach
Occasional mild nibbling is usually self-limiting; contact your vet if large amounts were eaten
Potentially Toxic Parts
Entire Plant
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Hypocalcemic tetany (manifesting as lethargy, extreme weakness, ataxia/incoordination, tremors, and seizures)
Neurological
Acute renal failure (manifesting as changes in thirst and urination, PU/PD [polyuria/polydipsia], bloody urine
Renal
Gastrointestinal distress (including drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and inappetence/anorexia)
Gastrointestinal
Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.