The Paraguayan Jasmine (Brunfelsia species), also known as Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow, Lady-of-the-Night, or Kiss-Me-Quick, is highly toxic to cats. This ornamental plant, belonging to the Solanaceae family, poses a severe threat to felines if ingested. The toxicity is due to the presence of brunfelsamidine, a harmful compound found in all parts of the plant.
Commonly found in gardens and as houseplants, especially in warmer regions, this beautiful but dangerous plant can cause serious health issues for curious cats.
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 Paraguayan Jasmine plant, it can experience a range of severe symptoms. The toxic effects can manifest quickly and may persist for several days, making prompt veterinary attention crucial.Common symptoms of Paraguayan Jasmine poisoning in cats include:
When presented with a cat showing symptoms of Paraguayan Jasmine poisoning, a veterinarian will likely follow these steps:
A: Paraguayan Jasmine can be harmful to cats if ingested, as it contains compounds that can lead to gastrointestinal upset. It’s best to keep this plant out of your home if you have cats to avoid any risk.
A: If a cat eats Paraguayan Jasmine, symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and lethargy may occur. In more severe cases, it could lead to neurological symptoms, so it’s essential to seek vet care promptly.
A: While most cases of exposure to Paraguayan Jasmine result in mild, temporary symptoms, severe poisoning could potentially lead to long-term effects. Early intervention is crucial to avoid prolonged health issues.
A: If your cat has come into contact with or ingested Paraguayan Jasmine, immediately call your veterinarian. They may recommend bringing your cat in for treatment depending on the severity of the symptoms.
A: Yes, there are many cat-friendly plants, such as spider plants or cat grass, which are safe alternatives to Paraguayan Jasmine. These options not only look great but are also non-toxic to your feline friends.
A: To prevent your cat from nibbling on harmful plants like Paraguayan Jasmine, place plants out of reach or choose only pet-safe plants. You can also provide your cat with engaging alternatives like cat grass to satisfy their curiosity.
The Paraguayan Jasmine, native to South America, has a rich history as both an ornamental and medicinal plant. Brunfelsia species have been cultivated for centuries due to their beautiful, fragrant flowers that change color over time, earning them the nickname “Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow.”I
n traditional medicine, some Brunfelsia species were used to treat various ailments, including sexually transmitted infections and menstrual pain. The plant gained popularity as an ornamental in the 19th century and spread to gardens worldwide.
In Paraguay, the jasmine holds cultural significance and is associated with revolutionary women, particularly Juana María de Lara. According to local lore, she carried a bouquet of Paraguayan Jasmine upon the victory of a revolution, inspiring an early version of the Paraguayan flag.
Despite its beauty and cultural importance, the toxic nature of the Paraguayan Jasmine makes it a dangerous addition to homes with cats, highlighting the need for pet owners to be vigilant about the plants they keep.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
