Is Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow Toxic to Cats?

As pet owners, we always want to ensure the health and safety of our furry friends. With that said, there are many common household items that can be dangerous and even toxic to our pets. One substance that often causes concern among cat owners is the plant known as Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow. But is it actually toxic to cats?

What is Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow?

Firstly, let's take a look at what this plant actually is. Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow (Botanical name: Brunfelsia spp.) is a flowering plant native to South and Central America. It is known for its beautiful and unique blooms, which change color over the course of several days.

Potential Toxicity to Cats

While Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow may be a beautiful addition to any garden, it is important to note that it can be toxic to cats and other animals if ingested. The plant contains an alkaloid compound called brunfelsamidine, which can cause a variety of symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and even seizures if consumed in large amounts.

It is important to note that not all cats will have the same reaction to Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow. Some may only experience mild symptoms while others can become seriously ill. Additionally, the toxic effects of this plant can vary depending on a cat's size and overall health.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow

If you suspect that your cat has ingested Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Time is of the essence, especially if your cat is showing severe symptoms such as seizures or difficulty breathing. Be sure to bring a sample of the plant or a photo of it with you to the veterinarian to help with diagnosis and treatment.

Your veterinarian may induce vomiting, administer activated charcoal, or provide intravenous fluids to help flush the toxins from your cat's system. Depending on the severity of the poisoning, hospitalization and supportive care may be necessary.

Preventing Toxicity in Cats

The best way to prevent toxicity from Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow (and other toxic plants) is to keep them out of your cat's reach. If you have this plant in your garden, make sure to supervise your cat when they are outside and consider fencing off the area where the plant is growing. You can also opt to remove the plant entirely and replace it with a non-toxic alternative.

Additionally, it is recommended to familiarize yourself with other common household items that can be toxic to cats, such as certain foods, medications, and cleaning products. Keeping these items out of reach and properly disposing of them can help prevent accidental poisonings.

Conclusion

While Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow may be a beautiful plant, it is important to be aware of its potential toxicity to cats and other animals. If you suspect your cat has ingested this plant or any other toxic substance, seek veterinary care immediately. By taking preventive measures and educating yourself on potential hazards, you can help ensure the health and safety of your feline companion.