Pennyroyal Oil Poisoning in Cats

Pennyroyal Oil from Poisonous Plant for Cats

Pennyroyal oil is derived from plants within the mint family known as Labiatae. It is frequently used in flea powders, sprays, and in fragrances. It can be toxic to cats, particularly when ingested.

Symptoms and Types

Symptoms expected with pennyroyal oil poisoning include:

• Listlessness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Coughing up blood
• Difficulty breathing
• Bloody nose
• Lethargy
• Coma
• Seizures
• Death

Causes

The active poison in pennyroyal oil is a chemical known as pulegone, which is toxic to the liver and can cause severe liver damage.

Diagnosis

Physical examination findings consistent with pennyroyal oil poisoning together with a history of exposure to plants, or flea products containing pennyroyal oil may prompt suspicion of toxicity.

Blood tests reveal abnormalities consistent with liver damage, including elevated liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartine aminotransferase, gamma-glyamyl transferase) and evidence of bleeding (anemia and prolonged clotting times.)

Evidence of hemorrhage (bleeding) may be seen in internal organs, such as the lungs, liver and kidneys.

A definitive diagnosis may be obtained by finding pulegone on gas chromatography (a specialized laboratory test that analyzes for specific chemicals.)

Treatment

Vomiting can be induced if the cat is not comatose, having respiratory difficulties or having seizures. Gastric lavage (washing out the stomach) may be performed and activated charcoal is frequently administered to bind the toxin.

Bathing with a mild shampoo to remove any pennyroyal oil on the skin and hair coat is recommended.

Fluid therapy may be necessary along with supportive nursing care. N-acetylcysteine may be recommended as well as liver protectants such as S-Adenosylmethionine, Ursodeoxycholic acid, or vitamin E. Gastrointestinal protectants such as cimetidine and/or carafate and antiemetic medications to control vomiting may also be used. Antibiotics are frequently administered also.

Prevention                

Use precaution when applying flea products containing pennyroyal oil on cats. Apply only to areas of your cat's body where it cannot be licked off, and if you have multiple cats, keep them separated until the product has dried completely. Be sure to follow label directions carefully to avoid overdosing.

Also, keep cats away from garden plants and other products which contain pennyroyal oil. Though pennyroyal oil poisoning is rare, it is believed that cats may be particularly susceptible.

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