Is Mahonia toxic to cats?

NO (NON-TOXIC)

Good news, Mahonia is a cat safe plant! While this plant is non-toxic, it may still irritate your cat's tummy and potentially cause vomitting or diarrhea if ingested.

Additional Names:	Oregon Grape, Oregon Grape Holly, Mahonia aguifolium, Holly-leaved berry
Scientific Name:	Mahonia aquifolium
Family:	Berberidaceae

Detailed Write-up

Alec

6/10/23

Is Mahonia Toxic to Cats?

Cats are curious creatures and may often explore the plants in your home. As a responsible pet owner, it is essential to ensure that the plants your cat comes in contact with will not harm them. One such plant that pet owners are often concerned about is Mahonia.

What is Mahonia?

Mahonia is a flowering plant that belongs to the Berberidaceae family. This plant is also known as Oregon grape holly, Holly-leaved barberry, Oregon grape, and holly barberry. It is native to North America, and it grows in rocky, wooded areas. Mahonia is a common ornamental plant, and many people grow it in their gardens or keep it indoors as it has attractive foliage and bright yellow flowers.

Is Mahonia Toxic to Cats?

The short answer is yes, Mahonia is toxic to cats. The plant contains toxins in its leaves, stem, and fruit that can cause different health problems in cats.

The most predominant toxin in Mahonia is berberine, a bitter, yellow alkaloid compound. Berberine is responsible for the plant's yellow color, and it is found in all Mahonia parts, including the leaves, stems, and berries.

Cats that come in contact with Mahonia may experience various symptoms depending on the level of exposure. Common signs of Mahonia poisoning in cats include:

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Loss of appetite
Weakness
Lethargy
Increased heart rate
Dehydration

If your cat has ingested Mahonia, you may also notice yellow or reddish discoloration of their urine. In severe cases, cats may develop liver or kidney failure, but this is rare.

What to Do if Your Cat Ingests Mahonia?

If you suspect that your cat has ingested Mahonia, it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Early treatment can prevent or reduce the severity of symptoms, and your veterinarian can provide supportive care such as fluid therapy, medications to control vomiting and diarrhea, and monitoring of vital signs.

When you take your cat to the vet, it is crucial to inform them that your cat has ingested Mahonia. It can help your veterinarian diagnose and treat your cat promptly.

Preventing Mahonia Toxicity in Cats

Preventing Mahonia toxicity in cats is relatively easy. As a cat owner, you can take the following steps:

Avoid keeping Mahonia plants inside your home or garden.
If you must keep Mahonia, ensure it is out of reach of your cat or keep the plant in a secure room where your cat cannot access it.
Teach your cat not to chew on plants. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as providing your cat with cat-safe toys and treats and praising them when they use them instead of plants.
If your cat shows signs of plant toxicity, contact your veterinarian immediately.

The Bottom Line

Mahonia is toxic to cats and can cause various health problems. As a responsible pet owner, you should avoid keeping Mahonia inside the house or garden and take steps to prevent your cat from ingesting it. If your cat shows signs of Mahonia poisoning, seek veterinary care immediately. With proper care and attention, you can keep your cat safe from Mahonia toxicity and other plant-related health problems.