Is Greater Ammi Toxic to Cats?

Cats are one of the most beloved pets worldwide. They are loved and cherished by many people for their playful and curious nature. However, the health of our feline friends is essential, and ensuring they are safe and healthy is critical. One way to do this is by keeping them away from toxic plants and flowers, such as Greater Ammi. But is Greater Ammi toxic to cats, and what are the potential risks? This article seeks to answer these questions using scientific evidence.

What is Greater Ammi?

Greater Ammi (Ammi majus) is a flowering plant commonly used in landscaping and as cut flowers. It belongs to the Apiaceae family, also known as the carrot family. It is a biennial plant that grows up to 120 cm in height and produces white flowers with green foliage. Greater Ammi is native to the Mediterranean region, but today, it grows widely in different parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America.

Is Greater Ammi Toxic to Cats?

Greater Ammi is not a cat-friendly plant. The entire plant, including the flowers, leaves, and stem, contains furanocoumarins, a type of photosensitizing agent that can cause skin reactions upon exposure to sunlight. When cats come into contact with Greater Ammi, they may develop a range of adverse reactions, such as reddening of the skin, blisters, and ulceration. The severity of these symptoms depends on the amount of contact with the plant and the sensitivity of the cat.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Greater Ammi Poisoning in Cats?

As already mentioned, Greater Ammi contains furanocoumarins, which can cause phototoxicity or skin reactions when exposed to sunlight. Some of the signs and symptoms of phototoxicity in cats include:

• Reddening of the skin
• Blisters
• Ulceration
• Itching
• Pain
• Hair loss
• Scaly skin

It is essential to monitor cats for these signs and symptoms upon exposure to Greater Ammi and to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

What Should You Do If Your Cat is Exposed to Greater Ammi?

If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with Greater Ammi, it is best to take them to the veterinarian immediately. The vet will perform a thorough examination and recommend the best course of treatment. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the vet may prescribe medications to alleviate pain and prevent infection. They may also advise you to keep your cat away from the plant until it is safe to resume exposure.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe from Greater Ammi?

The best way to keep your cat safe from Greater Ammi is to keep them away from the plant altogether. If you have Greater Ammi in your home or garden, consider removing it and replacing it with cat-friendly plants. Some cat-friendly plants include:

• Bamboo
• Lily turf
• Maidenhair ferns
• Spider plants
• Boston ferns

Alternatively, you can keep your cats indoors or in a safe and enclosed outdoor environment, away from toxic plants and other hazards.

Conclusion

Greater Ammi is a beautiful plant commonly used in landscaping and as cut flowers. However, it is not cat-friendly and can cause phototoxicity or skin reactions in cats when exposed to sunlight. Symptoms of phototoxicity in cats include reddening of the skin, blisters, and ulceration. If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with Greater Ammi, seek veterinary care immediately. To keep your cat safe from toxic plants like Greater Ammi, consider replacing it with cat-friendly plants or keeping your cats in a safe and enclosed environment.