TheĀ Moss RoseĀ (Portulaca grandiflora), also known as Purslane, is a popular ornamental plant that can be toxic to cats if ingested. This succulent ground cover is commonly found in gardens and as houseplants.
While the plant’s vibrant flowers are attractive, its soluble calcium oxalates pose a potential health risk to curious felines.
Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.
Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.
Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.
Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.
All parts of these plants are extremely poisonous to cats and can quickly lead to death, even with immediate veterinary care.
** Please note: Please note that toxicity level can vary based on the amount ingested and the specific cat. It's always best to keep these plants completely inaccessible to cats and seek immediate veterinary care or call the poison hotline if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant.
If your cat has ingested any part of the Moss Rose plant, they may exhibit the following symptoms:
These symptoms occur due to the presence of soluble calcium oxalates in the plant, which can cause irritation and inflammation in the cat’s digestive system and other organs.
If you suspect your cat has ingested Moss Rose, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. Your veterinarian may follow these steps to diagnose and treat your cat:
A: No, Moss Rose is not safe for cats. It contains calcium oxalates, which are toxic and can lead to serious symptoms like oral irritation, vomiting, and even kidney failure if ingested in large quantities.
A: Portulaca, including Moss Rose, is quite toxic to cats. It can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and oral pain due to its oxalate crystals that irritate the digestive system.
A: Yes, Portulaca Moss Rose is considered poisonous to cats due to its high oxalate content. Consumption can lead to gastrointestinal distress and potentially more severe complications.
A: While animals like deer are not attracted to Moss Roses, pets like cats may chew on the plant out of curiosity. This could result in toxic reactions due to the plant’s harmful components, like calcium oxalates.
A: If a cat ingests a large amount of Moss Rose, it could result in life-threatening conditions such as kidney failure. Prompt veterinary care is crucial to mitigate the plantās toxic effects.
A: If your cat consumes Moss Rose, you should seek immediate veterinary assistance. Watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy, which may indicate oxalate poisoning.
The moss rose, a sport of Rosa centifolia, first appeared in the late 17th century. It gained popularity in Europe during the 18th century for its unique mossy growth on stems and sepals. The original mutation likely occurred in Carcassonne, France, around 1696.
Today, moss roses remain prized for their fragrant, mossy buds and flowers. While less common than in Victorian times, they’re experiencing a revival among rose enthusiasts. Modern cultivars offer a range of colors and growth habits, preserving the legacy of this fascinating rose variety.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
