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Rhubarb
Rheum rhabarbarum
Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) is toxic to cats. While the cooked stalks are commonly used in human food, all parts of the plant — especially the leaves — contain high concentrations of soluble oxalic acid and oxalate compounds. Cats are particularly sensitive to oxalate toxicity because it leads to calcium oxalate crystal formation in the kidneys.
Important Notes
Toxic compounds: oxalic acid and soluble oxalate salts; leaves contain the highest concentration; stalks contain moderate amounts
Mechanism: soluble oxalates bind calcium in the bloodstream, causing hypocalcaemia; calcium oxalate crystals precipitate in kidney tubules causing renal damage
Symptoms: drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, muscle tremors (from hypocalcaemia); kidney damage may cause increased thirst and urination
Leaves are the most dangerous part; even small amounts can cause serious symptoms in cats
Contact your vet if your cat ingests any part of the rhubarb plant
Potentially Toxic Parts
Stem
Leaf
Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats
Bloody urine, changes in thirst and urination (polyuria/polydipsia), oliguria (abnormally low urine production), anuria
Renal · Delayed; develops secondary to the absorption of the toxin and subsequent crystal formation
Drooling, inappetence (loss of appetite), vomiting, and diarrhea
Gastrointestinal · Initial signs typically appear shortly after ingestion
Lethargy, extreme weakness, ataxia (loss of coordination), tremors, and seizures
Gastrointestinal · Develops progressively as the toxins are absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstre
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.