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The Dangers of the Kiss Me Quick Plant to Cats

An intricate botanical illustration of the Lady-of-the-Night Plant, framed by Gothic arches. The plant features detailed leaves and white flowers, all rendered in a vintage style with ornate patterns and decorative elements

The Kiss Me Quick plant, also known as Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Lady-of-the-Night, Morning-Noon-and-Night, and Franciscan Rain Tree, is a highly toxic plant to cats.

This ornamental shrub, scientifically named Brunfelsia species, belongs to the Solanaceae family and can be commonly found in lightly wooded areas, thickets, and as a decorative plant around homes.

Assessing the Toxicity Level of the Kiss-me-quick Plant

(Level 4-5) - Highly to Extremely Toxic

Veterinary care is vital in case of poisoning, or you can call the APCC 24-Hour Emergency Poison Hotline for immediate advice.

  • Level 1 - Minimally Toxic

    Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.

  • Level 2 - Mildly Toxic

    Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.

  • Level 3 - Moderately Toxic

    Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.

  • Level 4 - Highly Toxic

    Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.

  • Level 5 - Extremely Toxic

    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.

Signs of discomfort your cat might display

If a cat ingests any part of the Kiss Me Quick plant, it can experience severe symptoms due to the presence of the toxic compound brunfelsamidine. The onset of symptoms is usually rapid, occurring within 30 minutes to 4 hours after ingestion.Common symptoms of Kiss Me Quick poisoning in cats include:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Tremors and seizures (which may last for several days)
  • Lethargy and weakness
  • Excessive salivation or drooling
  • Loss of balance and lack of coordination
  • Facial twitching
  • Rapid breathing
  • Coughing

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Potential diagnosis your Vet may give

If you suspect your cat has ingested the Kiss Me Quick plant, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention. Your veterinarian will likely follow these steps to diagnose and treat your cat:

  1. Perform a thorough physical examination and obtain a detailed history of your cat’s exposure to the plant.
  2. Conduct blood tests and urinalysis to assess your cat’s overall health and check for any abnormalities.
  3. Administer supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, to prevent dehydration and maintain electrolyte balance.
  4. Provide anti-seizure medication if your cat is experiencing seizures.
  5. Administer activated charcoal to help absorb any remaining toxins in the digestive system.
  6. Monitor your cat closely and provide additional supportive care as needed.
An illustrative banner depicting an anthropomorphic cat in a vet's office, alongside a call-to-action message that reads: 'If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance,' accompanied by a prominent button stating 'Find A Vet Near Me!
An illustrative banner depicting an anthropomorphic cat in a vet's office, alongside a call-to-action message that reads: 'If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance,' accompanied by a prominent button stating 'Find A Vet Near Me!

Kiss-me-quick Toxic Plants and Cat Safety: Frequently Asked Questions about the Kiss-me-quick Plant

Q: Is the Kiss Me Quick Plant toxic to cats?

A: Yes, the Kiss Me Quick Plant (Portulaca pilosa), also known as Pink Purslane, is mildly toxic to cats. It contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested.

Q: What symptoms might a cat display after ingesting the Kiss Me Quick Plant?

A: Symptoms of Kiss Me Quick poisoning in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. In some cases, cats may also experience lethargy or loss of appetite.

Q: How much of the Kiss Me Quick Plant is harmful to cats?

A: Ingesting even small amounts of the Kiss Me Quick Plant can lead to mild digestive issues in cats. Although it’s not highly toxic, it can still cause discomfort.

Q: What should I do if my cat eats the Kiss Me Quick Plant?

A: If your cat consumes any part of the Kiss Me Quick Plant and shows symptoms, contact your veterinarian for advice. In most cases, supportive care will help resolve the symptoms.

Q: Can Kiss Me Quick poisoning be fatal to cats?

A: Kiss Me Quick poisoning is rarely fatal, but it can cause significant discomfort for your cat. Early treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening.

Q: Are there safer alternatives to the Kiss Me Quick Plant for households with cats?

A: Yes, safer alternatives include Catnip, Spider Plants, and Boston Ferns, which are non-toxic and safe for cats.

The Story Behind the Kiss-me-quick Plant

Kiss-me-quick (Portulaca pilosa), native to tropical America, spread globally through colonial trade. Named for its rush-like leaves and quick-closing flowers, it gained popularity as an ornamental and medicinal plant. Its ability to thrive in poor soil made it a favorite in gardens worldwide.
Today, Kiss-me-quick remains valued for its vibrant pink blooms and low-maintenance nature. It’s used in traditional medicine for diuretic and analgesic properties. As a hardy ground cover, it helps prevent soil erosion. Its legacy continues as both a beloved garden plant and a subject of scientific study.

Further reading and sources

Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.

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