Introduction
Have you ever considered that the flowers you bring into your home may be dangerous to your pets? This article will discuss the potential hazards of Baby’s Breath to cats and provide some tips on how to keep your feline friends safe.
What is Baby’s Breath?
Baby’s Breath is a popular flower commonly used in floral arrangements, especially in weddings. It is a delicate, white flower that has a pleasant fragrance. There are two main types of Baby’s Breath: Gypsophila paniculata and Gypsophila elegans.
Gypsophila Paniculata
Gypsophila Paniculata is also known as “common Baby’s Breath.” It has a more significant presence, and its blooms are larger than those of Gypsophila Elegans. Its stems are sturdy and can hold up to four to eight smaller flowers per stem.
Gypsophila Elegans
Gypsophila Elegans is commonly referred to as “annual Baby’s Breath.” Its flowers and stems are more delicate than Gypsophila Paniculata, and it typically only flowers once per season.
Is Baby’s Breath Toxic to Cats?
Yes. Just like many other flowers, Baby’s Breath is toxic to cats. The plant contains saponins that can affect the gastrointestinal tract and cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion of Baby’s Breath can cause more dangerous symptoms such as tremors, seizures, and breathing difficulties.
Symptoms of Poisoning
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Breathing difficulties
Types of Poison Present in Baby’s Breath
The type of poison present in Baby’s Breath is saponins. Saponins are present in many plants and are responsible for stimulating the release of saliva, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in pets.
Tips on How to Prevent Your Cats from Ingesting Baby’s Breath
Store Baby’s Breath Away from Pets
When you bring Baby’s Breath flowers into your home, keep them in a location that your cat cannot reach. Cats are notorious for jumping on high shelves and countertops, so try to find a secure location that is out of reach.
Keep Baby’s Breath in a Vase
If you prefer to display your flowers, make sure to put Baby’s Breath in a vase with tall, narrow necks that are easily visible to your cat. A vase will help to contain the flowers and discourage your cat from trying to eat them.
Replace Baby’s Breath with Pet-Friendly Plants
If you love flowers and want to keep them in your home, there are plenty of cat-safe plants such as spider plants, Boston ferns, and African violets that are safe for your feline friends.
Conclusion
It’s essential to be aware of the flowers and plants that can be harmful to your pets. Baby’s Breath is one such plant that can be dangerous to cats. As cat owners, it’s our responsibility to keep our pets safe and prevent them from ingesting toxic plants.
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