I asked AI.
Google Gemini Answer
Gooseberries can be harmful to cats, especially the leaves and stems which contain hydrogen cyanide, a toxin. The berries themselves are less toxic but can still cause stomach upset. Here’s what you should do:
1. Assess the situation:
- Amount consumed: The amount of gooseberry ingested will affect the severity of the reaction. If it was just a few berries, your cat might be alright.
- Time elapsed: The sooner you take action, the better.
2. Monitor your cat for symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty breathing
- Pawing at the mouth (sign of irritation)
- Seizures
- Collapsing
3. Take action:
- If you see any symptoms, especially severe ones like difficulty breathing or seizures, take your cat to the vet immediately.
- If your cat seems fine but you’re concerned, call your veterinarian for advice. Explain what happened and how much of the gooseberry you think your cat ate. They will advise you on whether you need to bring your cat in for an examination.
4. Keep your cat away from gooseberries:
- If you have a gooseberry plant, remove it from your cat’s reach or block access to the area.
Here are some additional resources you might find helpful:
- American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center: You can call them 24/7 at (888) 426-4435 There is a consultation fee. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
I hope this information helps! It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so if you’re worried at all, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.