What is “Hymetsugi”?
“Hymetsugi” is the Japanese name for Nerium oleander, also known as the oleander plant.
Toxicity of Oleander to Cats
Oleander is highly toxic to cats due to the presence of cardiac glycosides, which can cause heart problems.
Symptoms of Oleander Poisoning in Cats
Symptoms of oleander poisoning can develop within 12-72 hours after ingestion and may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Tremors
- Weakness
- Seizures
- Respiratory distress
What to Do If Your Cat Ate Oleander
1. Call your veterinarian immediately. Oleander poisoning is a medical emergency.
2. Do not induce vomiting. Vomiting can worsen the situation by exposing your cat’s esophagus to the toxic substances.
3. If possible, take a sample of the plant to the veterinarian. This will help them confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment.
Treatment for Oleander Poisoning
1. Decontamination: Your veterinarian may administer activated charcoal to absorb the toxins.
2. Cardiovascular support: Your cat may receive medications to stabilize their heart rhythm and support their cardiovascular system.
3. Gastric lavage: Your veterinarian may perform a gastric lavage to remove any remaining plant material from the stomach.
4. Intravenous fluids: Your cat may receive intravenous fluids to rehydrate them and support their vital organs.
Prognosis
The prognosis for oleander poisoning depends on the amount ingested and the timeliness of treatment. With prompt treatment, most cats can recover. However, severe poisoning can be fatal.
Prevention
- Keep oleander plants out of reach of cats.
- Be aware that even small amounts of oleander can be toxic.
- If you suspect your cat has eaten oleander, seek veterinary attention immediately.
The article was created by AI.
We received responses from Google Gemini to the following questions.
My cat ate an “Hymetsugi”. What should I do? Answers should be in English.
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