String of Pearls

Symptoms reported in cats

Most serious first.

1. 1
   Vomiting and diarrhea Not explicitly specified in the sources. · If plant pieces are found in the cat's mouth, they should be removed and the mouth should be rinsed with water. Veterinary attention is recommended, especially if a large amount was eaten.
2. 2
   Drooling Not explicitly specified in the sources. · Drooling typically occurs as a direct response to oral irritation from chewing the plant parts or sap.
3. 3
   Lethargy Not explicitly specified in the sources. · Lethargy indicates a systemic reaction to the plant's toxins. If a cat becomes noticeably lethargic after eating the plant, the sources strongly advise contacting a veterinarian.
4. 4
   Irritation of the skin and eyes Not explicitly specified (likely immediate or shortly after contact). · This localized irritation is specifically caused by direct physical contact with the plant's sap. Rinsing the cat's paws (and mouth) with water is recommended to remove the irritant sap.

Important notes

String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a popular trailing succulent whose bead-like leaves make it visually appealing, but it is toxic to cats. The entire plant, including its sap, contains compounds that can cause internal and external irritation. The plant is believed to contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are known to be harmful to the liver, although the exact toxins have not been fully identified. Additionally, the plant's sap can irritate a cat's skin and eyes on contact. Because the round leaves are tempting for cats to bat at and chew, this plant poses a significant risk. If a cat eats this plant, it may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and noticeable tiredness or lethargy. Skin contact might cause redness or itching. Due to the risk of liver damage and other symptoms, place this plant completely out of your cat's reach. If you suspect your cat has eaten any part of it, contact your veterinarian.

• Toxic compounds: pyrrolizidine alkaloids and irritant compounds throughout the plant; the round bead-like leaves may attract cats
• Mechanism: PAs are metabolised to reactive pyrroles in the liver, causing hepatocellular necrosis; cumulative damage can lead to liver failure
• Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy; chronic exposure may cause weight loss and jaundice as liver damage accumulates
• The dangling bead-like appearance is particularly appealing to cats — relocate to spaces cats cannot access
• Seek veterinary care if significant ingestion occurs