Nandina domestica, commonly known as heavenly bamboo or sacred bamboo, is a popular ornamental evergreen shrub. Despite its name, it is not a true bamboo but rather a member of the Berberidaceae family.
While this plant is prized for its attractive foliage and bright red berries, it can be toxic to cats if ingested. Nandina domestica contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when the plant material is chewed or digested. This shrub is frequently used in landscaping and can be found in many gardens and public spaces.
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 a cat ingests any part of the Nandina domestica plant, especially the berries, they may experience various symptoms of cyanide poisoning. These can include:
In severe cases, Nandina domestica poisoning can be fatal if not treated promptly.
If you suspect your cat has ingested Nandina domestica, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian will likely follow these steps to diagnose and treat your cat:
A: Yes, Nandina is toxic to cats due to its cyanogenic glycosides, which release cyanide when ingested. This toxicity can cause symptoms like vomiting, seizures, and in severe cases, respiratory failure.
A: Nandina is highly poisonous to pets and other animals, with its berries containing cyanide-producing compounds. Even a small amount can cause sudden and severe reactions, including death in some cases.
A: Heavenly Bamboo, another name for Nandina, is not safe for pets as it contains toxic compounds that can harm cats and dogs. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, weakness, and more serious symptoms.
A: Lilies are considered one of the most toxic plants to cats, causing severe kidney failure. Other dangerous plants include Nandina, azaleas, and pothos.
A: While Nandina can be visually appealing, it is considered both toxic and invasive. Its berries spread easily and pose a serious risk to wildlife and pets.
A: Symptoms of Nandina poisoning in cats include vomiting, difficulty breathing, and seizures. Immediate veterinary care is crucial to prevent severe complications.
Nandina domestica is native to eastern Asia, including China, Japan, and India. It was introduced to the Western world in the early 19th century by William Kerr, a plant collector for the Kew Gardens in London. The shrub quickly gained popularity as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage, which changes color throughout the year, and its clusters of bright red berries.
Despite its toxicity to cats and other animals, Nandina domestica remains a widely cultivated plant in many parts of the world. Some cultivars, such as ‘Nana’ and ‘Gulf Stream’, have been developed to be more compact and less likely to produce berries, making them somewhat safer options for gardens frequented by pets.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
