Changes

Jump to navigation Jump to search
3,732 bytes added ,  14:42, 2 August 2011
Created page with "==Introduction== Plants are an important part of the interiors of homes. Pets often '''chew or ingest''' these plants, which can lead to intoxications. '''Age of the pet, boredo..."
==Introduction==
Plants are an important part of the interiors of homes. Pets often '''chew or ingest''' these plants, which can lead to intoxications.

'''Age of the pet, boredom, and changes in the surroundings''' are factors that may affect the incidence of poisoning. '''Puppies and kittens''' are very inquisitive, and mouth or chew almost everything. Pets (especially single household pets) of all ages may become bored or restless if left alone or confined for too long at any one time, and chewing on objects for relief is common.

Birds also chew plants, however toxicities are rare as they rarely ingest any material. Also, few plants have been shown to be toxic to birds.

==Clinical signs==
Common clinical signs include '''dermal and oral mucosal irritation''' and '''GIT irritation''' signs such as '''regurgitation, salivation, vomiting, diarrhoea and anorexia'''.

Some plants have more '''serious''' effects ranging from:
:'''cardiac signs''' such as: tachycardia, bradycardia, arrhythmias
:'''nervous signs''' such as: convulsions, ataxia, tremors, paralysis
:'''renal failure'''
:'''haemolysis'''
:'''death'''

==Common poisonous houseplants and ornamentals==
''Aglaonema modestum'' (Araceae): Chinese evergreen, Painted drop tongue

''Aloe Barbadensis (vera)'' (Liliaceae): Aloe vera

''Cannabis sativa'' (Cannabaceae): Marijuana

''Capsicum annuum'' (Solanaceae): Cherry pepper, Chili pepper, Ornamental pepper

''Chlorophytum spp'' (Liliaceae): Spider plant

''Colchicum autumnale'' (Liliaceae, Colchicaceae): Crocus

''Convallaria majalis'' (Liliaceae): Lily-of-the-valley

''Cyclamen spp'' (Primulaceae): Cyclamen

''Dieffenbachia spp'' (Araceae): Dumbcane

''Digitalis purpurea'' (Scrophulariacae): Foxglove

''Euphorbia pulcherrima'' (Euphorbiaceae): Poinsettia

''Hyacinthus spp'' (Liliaceae): Hyacinths

''Ilex aquifolium'' (Aquifoliaceae): English holly

''Lilium longiflorum ; L tigrinum'' (Liliaceae): Easter lily, Trumpet lily

''Narcissus spp'' (Amaryllidaceae): Daffodils

''Philodendron spp'' (Araceae): Philodendron

''Phoradendron flavescens'' (Viscaceae): Mistletoe

''Rhododendron spp'' (Ericaceae): Azalea, Rhododendron

''Solanum pseudocapsicum'' (Solanaceae): Jerusalem cherry

''Taxus spp'' (Taxaceae): Yew

==Treatment considerations==
The '''cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous systems''' should be assessed and stabilised if necessary.

A '''capsule history''', including details of any suspect plants, should be taken. Also information should be gathered on any other medical conditions the animal is suffering from.

'''Access''' to the plant should be prevented.

In the case of skin irritations, the skin should be thoroughly '''lavaged''' using isotonic fluids to eliminate any toxins still present on the surface.

If the plant was ingested, further absorption should be prevented by inducing '''emesis''', performing '''gastric lavage''', or administering '''activated charcoal and cathartics'''.

'''Gastroprotectants''' can then be administered if there is irritation of the gastro-intestinal tract.


'''Most plant intoxications respond to symptomatic therapy and correction of any fluid and electrolyte imbalances that may occur. The animal usually recovers with no lasting effects.''' The oral mucosa may have suffered local irritation and tube feeding may be necessary in the first instance.


More serious symptoms such as convulsions and cardiovascular effects should be dealt with appropriately.

{{Learning
|flashcards = [[Avian Medicine Q&A 07]]
}}

==References==
Merck and Co (2008) '''Merck Veterinary Manual''' ''Merial''

Boden, E. (1998) '''Black's Veterinary Dictionnary''' ''Rowman and Littlefield''

[[Category:To Do - Review]]
[[Category:To Do - Helen]]
1,454

edits

Navigation menu