Roman chamomileĀ (Ā Chamaemelum nobile), also known asĀ English chamomile,Ā garden chamomile, orĀ ground apple, is a low-growing perennial plant commonly found in gardens and cultivated grounds across Europe and North America.
While this sweet-smelling herb is often used for its calming properties in teas and aromatherapy, it can beĀ harmful to catsĀ if ingested.Ā ChamomileĀ contains several compounds that areĀ toxic to felines, potentially causing symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
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.
Cats that have ingested Roman chamomile may experience various symptoms due to the plant’sĀ toxic compounds, such as tannic acid, anthemic acid, chamazulene, bisabolol, and volatile oils. These substances can cause:
In severe cases or with long-term consumption, chamomile poisoning may lead to bleeding tendencies in cats.
If you suspect your cat has ingested Roman chamomile, it is essential to seek veterinary care. Your veterinarian will likely follow these steps to diagnose chamomile poisoning:
A: Roman Chamomile can be harmful to cats if ingested. It may cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation.
A: Symptoms of chamomile poisoning in cats include gastrointestinal upset, like vomiting and diarrhea, as well as allergic reactions on the skin. In severe cases, cats might experience a loss of appetite or lethargy.
A: While itās best to keep cats away from Roman Chamomile plants, small amounts of exposure may not cause immediate harm. However, ingestion poses a risk, so it’s safer to avoid it altogether.
A: Ingesting Roman Chamomile can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. In addition, some cats may experience allergic reactions, causing skin irritation or more severe symptoms.
A: Yes, there are safer plants like catnip or cat grass that are non-toxic to cats. These alternatives offer similar calming benefits without the risk of poisoning.
A: If your cat eats Roman Chamomile, monitor for symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, and contact your vet immediately. Prompt veterinary care can help prevent more severe health issues.
Roman chamomile has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The plant was highly valued by the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans for its purportedĀ medicinalĀ andĀ cosmeticĀ properties. In the Middle Ages, chamomile was one of the “Nine Sacred Herbs” mentioned in Anglo-Saxon medical texts. The plant’s name derives from the Greek words ”Ā chamai” (on the ground) and ”Ā melon” (apple), referring to its low-growing habit and apple-like scent.
Throughout history, Roman chamomile has been used to treat various ailments, such as digestive issues, anxiety, and skin conditions. It was also popular in Tudor times as a fragrant lawn plant, releasing its aroma when walked upon. Despite its long-standing use in traditional medicine, it is important to note that chamomile can be harmful to cats and should be kept out of their reach.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
