Are Tomatoes Plants Bad for Cats?

Tomatoes may seem like a harmless food for both humans and pets, but for cats, consuming certain parts of the plant can be dangerous. While the ripe fruit of a tomato is not harmful to cats, the unripe fruit, leaves, and stems contain solanine and tomatine, which are toxic to felines.

What are Solanine and Tomatine?

Solanine and tomatine are two toxic alkaloids found in the green parts of tomatoes. Solanine is commonly found in potatoes and tomatine is found in green tomatoes. These substances are designed to protect the plant from being eaten by pests and predators.

Cats have a different digestive system than humans, and they can’t metabolize these toxic alkaloids very well. As a result, the consumption of these substances can cause a wide range of symptoms and health problems in cats.

What are the Symptoms of Tomato Plant Poisoning in Cats?

The symptoms of tomato plant poisoning in cats can vary depending on the severity of the poisoning. Common symptoms include:

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Lethargy

Weakness

Tremors

Loss of appetite

Difficulty breathing

In severe cases, tomato plant poisoning can cause seizures, coma, and even death.

What Should You Do if Your Cat Eats a Tomato Plant?

If you suspect that your cat has ingested any part of a tomato plant, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. Your vet will be able to properly diagnose and treat your cat’s symptoms.

In some cases, your cat may need to be hospitalized for close observation and supportive care. The vet may also give activated charcoal to help absorb any remaining toxins in your cat’s body.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe from Tomato Plants?

The best way to keep your cat safe from tomato plants is to keep them away from the plants altogether. If you have tomato plants in your garden or in your house, make sure they are out of reach of your cat.

Also, make sure to dispose of any tomato plants and green tomatoes properly to prevent your cat from accessing them. If possible, avoid using pesticides and other chemicals on your tomato plants that could harm your cat if ingested.

Conclusion

While ripe tomatoes are safe for cats to eat in moderation, the green parts of the tomato plant can be toxic to felines. It is essential to keep tomato plants out of reach of your cat and to seek veterinary attention immediately if you think your cat has ingested any part of the plant.

By taking proper precautions, you can keep your cat safe while still enjoying the many benefits of gardening and eating tomatoes.