Mother In Law Is Poisonous To Pets | Poisonous Plant For Pets

Plant Name:

Mother-In-Law Plant

Scientific Name:

Kalanchoe tubiflora

Family:

Crassulaceae

Toxins:

Oxalates that bind with calcium in the blood to form calcium oxalate crystals

Poisoning Symptoms:

Intense sensation of burning in the mouth, throat, lips and tongue, excessive drooling, choking and swelling, inability or difficulty swallowing, Ingestion of larger quantities, can result in severe digestive upset, extreme difficulty in breathing, rapid shallow gasps, if to much is consumed the symptoms become much more severe and can include any of the above with the addition of convulsions, renal failure, coma and death. It is possible to recover from severe calcium oxalate poisoning, however in most cases permanent liver, and kidney damage may have already occurred.

Additional Information:

Hypocalcaemia (the presence of low serum calcium levels in the blood) and/or Oxalate Nephrosis ( Kidney disease that is characterized by the formation of lesions of the epithelial lining of the renal tubules), can also occur. Upon ingestion of Mother In Law which contains oxalates, the oxalates will be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract to bind with the serum calcium in the blood forming calcium oxalate crystals and depleting the blood of its normal calcium levels causing hypocalcaemia. This lack of unbound body regulated calcium in the blood stream will impair the function of the cell membrane causing muscular tremors, lethargy due to weakness, collapse and quite possibly death. It is the formation of these insoluble calcium oxalate crystals and the bodies attempt to process them that causes irreversible kidney damage, that may lead to eventual renal failure.

First Aid:

Upon ingestion of plants containing oxalates, the mouth should be rinsed and flushed thoroughly with water. The dog can then be given yogurt, milk, cheese or any other source of calcium to prevent the onset of hypocalcaemia by precipitating soluble oxalates. You should also begin fluid therapy to promote urination and assist the body in removing the non soluble oxalate crystals. Oxalate Nephrosis is not reversible, leaving supportive care as the only available treatment option. Seek Veterinary Attention.

Species Affected:

Toxic To Dogs

Toxic To Cats