Toxic Houseplants to Cats
A surprising number of plants you can buy for your home are toxic to cats (and dogs). While cats are not as prone to chewing as dogs are, they can still end up gnawing on leaves and stems if they suddenly get the urge.
Not limited only to house plants, both plants and flowers found inside and outside the home can vary from mild to severely poisonous to your pet. If your cat ingests any of these toxic plants, they risk suffering a variety of illnesses, including acute kidney failure.
Milla's Kats highly recommends that if you wish to keep house plants, it is best to put them someplace cats can’t reach. Because cats are excellent climbers and jumpers, it’s best practice to use hanging planters. Situate them away from tables, bookshelves, furniture, and other objects that would allow your cat to jump or reach from. Make sure all hanging stems and leaves are out of reach.
If you suspect your cat has ingested something poisonous, there are two 24-hour, 7-days-a-week helplines you can call: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435; consultation fee may apply) and Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661; a $85 consultation fee applies).
A long but by no means complete list of toxic plants and flowers is included at the bottom of this post. However, here are several that you and your cat are most likely to encounter. We have provided plants that are toxic to cats with pictures to easily identify them.
Lilies
Some lilies are so toxic that they should immediately be removed from the house. Best practice states that you should not have any lily in the house, as even drinking from the water in the pot may cause death for your cat.
While a number of plants have “lily” in the name, the most poisonous of them are: Asiatic lilies, daylilies, Easter lilies, Japanese show lilies, red lilies, rubrum lilies, stargazer lilies, tiger lilies, Western lilies, and wood lilies.
Easter lilies are the most dangerous. If your cat ingests one, they can cause death almost immediately. If your cat isn’t treated as soon as possible, it could die.
Pro Tip: Don’t keep lilies in or outside the house!
Sago Palm
Also known as coontie palm, cardboard palm, cycads, and zamias, Cycas revoluta is sometimes kept inside the house but is often seen planted outside. The sago palm seeds are the most dangerous, but all parts of the plant are toxic.
Symptoms of a cat that has ingested it include vomiting, diarrhea, black and/or tar-like stool, bruising, increased thirst, lethargy, liver failure, and death. Survival is expected only at 50 percent even if the cat is brought in immediately.
Autumn Crocus
Colchicum autumnale, also known as meadow saffron or naked lady, is particularly toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. A fall-flowering plant, all parts of it are toxic and shouldn’t be ingested.
Symptoms a cat may experience if they ingest it include drooling, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, seizures, kidney damage, liver damage, breathing difficulties, and even death. Symptoms may take days to appear.
Rhododendrons & Azaleas
The Rhododendron family is over 1,000-species, including azaleas. All parts of either plant are toxic to your cat.
Symptoms a cat may experience if they ingest it include heart arrhythmias, tremors, weakness, blindness, seizures, coma, gastrointestinal distress (such as lack of appetite, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea), and death.
Cyclamen
Like the lily, this plant should not be kept indoors. Also known as Persian violet and sowbread, Cyclamen spp. has over twenty species that are typically sold as house plants. The roots are the most toxic, but all parts of the plant have toxic components.
Symptoms a cat may experience if they ingest it include drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea for small amounts and abnormal heart rate and rhythm, seizures, and death for large quantities.
Narcissus
This plant contains approximately fifty species, including daffodils (aka jonquil, paper white, or Narcissus). The bulbs are the most toxic, but all parts of the plant contain the toxic component.
Symptoms a cat may experience if they ingest it include drooling, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Rarer but documented symptoms include cardiac arrhythmia, low blood pressure, convulsions, and breathing difficulties.
Oleander
Nerium Oleander (aka white oleander and Rose-Bay) are dangerous to your cat’s heart. The plant is dangerous enough that even the water in its pot can poison your cat. Do not keep it in your home or yard.
Symptoms of a cat that has ingested it include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, seizures, tremors, and fatal heart abnormalities.
Kalanchoe
Also known as mother-in-law plant, devil’s backbone, mother-of-millions, and chandelier plant, all parts of this plant are toxic.
Symptoms of a cat that has ingested it include gastrointestinal distress (such as drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea), and more severe symptoms (albeit rarer), including heart arrhythmias, collapse, and seizures.
Hyacinths and Tulips
Both types of plant belong to the same family as the abovementioned lily species. The most toxic part of the plant is the bulb, but all parts of the plant contain toxic elements.
Symptoms of a cat that has ingested it include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and depression.
Dieffenbachia
Also known as charming dieffenbachia, dumb cane, exotic perfection, giant dumb cane, gold dieffenbachia, spotted dumb cane, tropic snow, and variable dieffenbachia, this plant is common in households.
Symptoms of a cat that has ingested it include drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and general oral irritation. The plant isn’t deadly, but it causes extreme discomfort and pain in cats.
Toxic Houseplants to Cats Conclusion
Check the extensive list of plants toxic to cats provided before you buy a new plant as well as Google for more updated information. There are dozens of plants that are dangerous to your cat to varying degrees. To ensure your cat is safe, don’t keep indoor plants poisonous to cats and dogs in the house or plant them in the yard. For less toxic but still problematic plants, place them out of reach with hanging planters.
Toxic Houseplants to Cats Plant List
- Adam-and-Eve
- African Wonder Tree
- Alocasia
- Aloe
- Amaryllis
- Ambrosia Mexicana
- American Bittersweet
- American Holly
- American Mandrake
- American Yew
- Andromeda Japonica
- Angelica Tree
- Apple
- Apricot
- Arrow-Head Vine
- Arum
- Arum Lily
- Asian Lily
- Asparagus Fern
- Australian Ivy Palm
- Autumn Crocus
- Azalea
- Baby Doll Ti Plant
- Barbados Aloe
- Barbados Lily
- Barbados Pride
- Barbados Pride 2
- Bay Laurel
- Bead Tree
- Begonia
- Bergamot Orange
- Bird of Paradise
- Bird of Paradise 2
- Bird of Paradise Flower
- Bird's Tongue Flower
- Bishop’s Weed
- Bitter Root
- Black Calla
- Black Cherry
- Black Laurel
- Black Nightshade
- Bobbins
- Bog Laurel
- Borage
- Boxwood
- Branching Ivy
- Brazilwood
- Bread and Butter Plant
- Brunfelsia
- Buckeye
- Buckwheat
- Buddhist Pine
- Burning Bush
- Buttercup
- Butterfly Iris
- Caladium
- Calamondin Orange
- California Ivy
- Calla Lily
- Cape Jasmine
- Caraway
- Cardboard Cycad
- Cardboard Palm
- Cardinal Flower
- Carnation
- Castor Bean Plant
- Ceriman
- Chamomile
- Chandelier Plant
- Charming Dieffenbachia
- Cherry
- Chinaberry Tree
- Chinese Evergreen
- Chinese Jade
- Chives
- Choke Cherry
- Christmas Rose
- Chrysanthemum
- Clematis
- Climbing Bittersweet
- Climbing Lily
- Climbing Nightshade
- Clivia Lily
- Coffee Tree
- Coleus
- Common Privet
- Coontie Palm
- Cordatum
- Corn Plant
- Cornstalk Plant
- Cow parsnip
- Cowbane
- Cuckoo-pint
- Cutleaf Philodendron
- Cycads
- Cyclamen
- Daffodil
- Dahlia
- Daisy
- Day Lilies (many varieties)
- Deadly Nightshade
- Desert Azalea
- Desert Rose
- Devil's Backbone
- Devils Ivy
- Dieffenbachia
- Dock
- Dog Daisy
- Dog Hobble
- Dogbane Hemp
- Dracaena
- Dumbcane
- Dwarf Poinciana
- Easter Lily
- Easter Rose
- Eastern Star
- Elephant Ears
- Elephant-Ear Begonia
- Emerald Feather
- English Holly
- English Ivy
- English Yew
- Epazote
- Eucalyptus
- European Bittersweet
- European Holly
- Everlasting Pea
- Exotica
- False Bittersweet
- False Queen Anne’s Lace
- Feather Geranium
- Fern Palm
- Fetter Bush
- Fetterbush
- Fiddle-Leaf
- Fig
- Figwort
- Fire Lily
- Flag
- Flamingo Flower
- Fleabane
- Florida Beauty
- Florist's Calla
- Foxglove
- Franciscan Rain Tree
- Garden Calla
- Garden Chamomile
- Garden Hyacinth
- Gardenia
- Garlic
- Geranium
- Geranium-Leaf Aralia
- Giant Dracaena
- Giant Dumb Cane
- Giant Hogweed
- Glacier Ivy
- Gladiola
- Gloriosa Lily
- Gold Dieffenbachia
- Gold Dust Dracaena
- Golden Birds Nest
- Golden Pothos
- Golden Ragwort
- Good Luck Plant
- Grapefruit
- Grass Palm
- Greater Ammi
- Green Gold Naphthysis
- Ground Apple
- Groundsel
- Hahn's Self Branching English
- Ivy
- Hashish
- Hawaiian Ti
- Heartleaf Philodendron
- Heavenly Bamboo
- Hellebore
- Hercules' Club
- Hills of Snow
- Holly
- Horse Chestnut
- Horsehead Philodendron
- Horseweed
- Hortensia
- Hosta
- Hurricane Plant
- Hyacinth
- Hydrangea
- Impala Lily
- Indian Apple
- Indian Borage
- Indian Hemp
- Indian Pink
- Indian Rubber Plant
- Inkberry
- Iris
- Iron Cross Begonia
- Ivy Arum
- Jack-in-the-pulpit
- Jade Plant
- Japanese Show Lily
- Japanese Yew
- Jerusalem Cherry
- Jerusalem Oak
- Jonquil
- Kaffir Lily
- Kalanchoe
- Kiss-me-quick
- Klamath Weed
- Kudu Lily
- Lace Fern
- Lacy Tree Philodendron
- Lady-of-the-night
- Lambkill
- Lantana
- Larkspur
- Laurel
- Lavender
- Leatherflower
- Leek
- Lemon
- Lemon Grass
- Lemon Verbena
- Lenten Rose
- Lily
- Lily of the Palace
- Lily of the Valley
- Lily-of-the-Valley Bush
- Lime
- Lobelia
- Locust
- Lord-and-Ladies
- Lovage
- Madagascar Dragon Tree
- Maidens Breath
- Malanga
- Maleberry
- Mapleleaf Begonia
- Marble Queen
- Marijuana
- Marjoram
- Mauna Loa Peace Lily
- Mayapple
- Mayweed
- Meadow Saffron
- Medicine Plant
- Metallic Leaf Begonia
- Mexican Breadfruit
- Milfoil
- Milkweed
- Mint
- Mistletoe “American”
- Mock Azalea
- Mole Bean Plant
- Morning Glory
- Morning-Noon-and-Night
- Moss Rose
- Mother of Millions
- Mother-in-Law
- Mother-In-Law Plant
- Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
- Mum
- Naked Lady
- Nandina
- Narcissus
- Nasturtium (Watercress)
- Needlepoint Ivy
- Nephthytis
- Nicotiana
- Nightshade
- Octopus Tree
- Oilcloth Flower
- Oleander
- Onion
- Orange
- Orange Day Lily
- Oregano
- Oregon Holly
- Ornamental Pepper
- Pacific Yew
- Painter's Pallette
- Palm Lily
- Panda Plant
- Paper White
- Paraguayan Jasmine
- Parsley
- Peace Begonia
- Peace Lily
- Peach
- Peacock Flower
- Pencil Cactus
- Peony
- Perennial Pea
- Periwinkle
- Philodendron Pertusum
- Pie Plant
- Pieris
- Pig Lily
- Pigtail Plant
- Pink Pearl
- Pinks
- Plantain Lily
- Plum
- Plumosa Fern
- Poinciana
- Poinsettia
- Poison Daisy
- Poison Hemlock
- Poison Parsnip
- Portulaca
- Prayer Bean
- Pride-of-India
- Primrose
- Privet
- Purslane
- Racemose Asparagus
- Ragwort
- Ranger’s Button
- Red Emerald
- Red Lily
- Red Princess
- Red-Marginated Dracaena
- Rex Begonia
- Rhododendron
- Rhubarb
- Ribbon Plant
- Ridderstjerne
- Rock Moss
- Roman Chamomile
- Rosebay
- Rubrum Lily
- Running Myrtle
- Sabi Star
- Sacred Bamboo
- Saddle Leaf
- Sago Palm
- Satin Pothos
- Scented Geranium
- Schefflera
- Seaside Daisy
- Seven Bark
- Shamrock Plant
- Shatavari
- Showy Daisy
- Silver Dollar
- Silver Jade Plant
- Skunk Cabbage
- Snake Lilly
- Snake Plant Solomon’s Lily
- Sorrel
- Sowbread
- Spanish Thyme
- Spindle Tree
- Split Leaf Philodendron
- Spotted Dumb Cane
- Sprengeri Fern
- Spring Parsley
- John’s Wort
- Staggerbush
- Starch Root
- Stargazer Lily
- Starleaf
- Stinking Chamomile
- Straight-Margined Dracaena
- Striped Dracaena
- Superb Lily
- Sweet Cherry
- Sweet Pea
- Sweet William
- Sweetheart Ivy
- Swiss Cheese Plant
- Tahitian Bridal Veil
- Tail Flower
- Taro
- Taro Vine
- Tarragon
- Texas Umbrella Tree
- Ti-Plant
- Tiger Lily
- Tobacco
- Tomato Plant
- Tree Philodendron
- Tree Tobacco
- Tropic Snow
- True Aloe
- Trumpet Lily
- Tulip
- Umbrella Leaf
- Umbrella Tree
- Variable Dieffenbachia
- Variegated Philodendron
- Variegated Wandering Jew
- Vinca
- Virgin’s Bower
- Wahoo
- Wake Robin
- Wandering Jew
- Warneckei Dracaena
- Water Flag
- Water Hemlock
- Wax-Leaf
- Weeping Fig
- Western Yew
- White Heads
- Wild Arum
- Wild Calla
- Wild Carnation
- Wild Coffee
- Winter Cherry
- Winterberry
- Wisteria
- Wood Lily
- Yarrow
- Yellow Oleander
- Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow
- Yew
- Yew Pine
- Yucca
Houseplants safe for cats list can be found at https://be.chewy.com/which-plants-are-poisonous-to-cats-a-complete-guide/
How to Find a Reputable Cat Breeder
Fluffy, independent, incessantly cuddly but also standoffish and unpredictable—cats are companions that bring you as much comfort as some of the best humans you are likely to meet. Whether you live with a warm and loving lap cat, or are lucky enough to share your home with a sassy couch-potato type,
choosing your first cat can be a confusing, stressful, and delicate process. Nevertheless, if you’re set on finding the purr-fect feline for you, consider pedigree cats or kittens.
We will go over how to find a reputable cat breeder. Pedigree cats come in a wide variety of breeds. If getting a pedigree cat like an American Shorthair is something you want to do, you can learn a lot from online resources, such as this website, which provides knowledge and tips on a wide range of fashionable cousins of the cute British Shorthair. Whichever pedigree breed strikes your fancy, there is a cat out there that’s just purr-fect for you. Any kind of cat can make an outstanding pet, but pedigree cats are the most socially desirable and the most genetically desirable.
Once you have chosen a breed that you feel the most suited to, you can start the search for a reputable and professional cat breeder.
How to find a Reputable Cat Breeder
Visit a local cat show, and pet expos. These are usually the best places to find a reputable cat breeder. You will see that the cats are very well maintained and are very well socialized. Quality certified cat breeders will know their business and enjoy sharing a wealth of experience with a prospective customer; questions and curiosity are a positive feature, not a hindrance.
Other ways to check on how to find a reputable cat breeder and how responsible and ethical they are, is to find a cat breeder will go above and beyond the call of duty in order to make sure their cats are healthy, happy, and cared for. They put a lot of loving work into every individual they breed. To further your chances of finding registered cat breeders near me, you should ask the registering associations such as The Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) and The International Cat Association (TICA) for cat breeder list and if they have a cattery license or accreditation program in place. Because these things are extra hoops and filters that adoptable catteries have to jump through, they are designed to ensure that the people who breed, sell, and care for pedigree cats comply with a high standard of animal care and breeding practices. If a potential cat breeder you are speaking to has their accreditation through one of these associations, you probably already have a good idea that they are reputable and legit, saving you a lot of trouble in the long run.
Showing Cats Symbolizes a Reputable Breeder
To check that a breeder is genuine and dedicated to ensuring the breed remains healthy as well as good looking, ask to see his cats at a cat show. This way, you’ll be able to have a discussion with him openly in a public arena without having to commit to purchasing your cat from him. Note that a good breeder will talk about techniques that he uses to improve upon the breed rather than gloat about his wins.
Red Flags to Watch Out for When Selecting a Breeder
- Sells distinct cat breeds.
- Sells kittens that are not desexed.
- Offers low prices for precious pedigree kittens.
- Usually sells without signing any contract.
- Is hesitant or refuses to disclose where the kittens/cats were born.
- Doesn’t provide a guarantee to show that the parents were healthy, etc.
As craftsmanship and dedication are key aspects to breeding cats, not all breeders will allow you to pay visits to their cattery. However, most of them will be pleased to take you on a tour of their facilities. They should have a professional-looking website full of images of their cattery and the places where they keep their stud cats. They may give you an insight into why they breed their cats and what they do with their kittens. The breeder should provide you with information on their registering association standards and all the relevant information about the breed you are looking into.
A good breeder will always prioritize quality over quantity whenever possible and will want to share their pride and appreciation for the breed they’re interested in with you. The very best way to find a reputable pedigree cat for sale in your area is to find a breeder who truly appreciates the feeling of pride they get from caring for pedigree cats and is always respectful and polite in providing information about them.
Finally, reputable cat breeders near me will want to interview you so that they can gain insight into your lifestyle, personality, and expectations so they can get an idea of what you’re looking for. They want to know how determined you are and how committed you will be with your new kitten, and so on.
A respectable and reputable breeder these days will always have a waiting list of potential adopters for their kittens. They will go above and beyond to ensure the experience for a new family is as smooth as possible.
Dangers in the Water Bowl: How Safe is Your Pet’s Drinking Water?
Your American Shorthair pet’s water bowl may be a health hazard to your pet and to your family. Studies have shown that the water bowl can be a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria like salmonella, MRSA, and E. coli.
The type of bowl you use for your pet could be the problem. According to a study conducted by the University Centre Hartpury in the United Kingdom, the material your pet’s water bowl is made of can affect the bacteria.
What type of bowl should you buy?
1. Types of Bowls
Water and dish bowls come in a small variety of materials: plastic, stone, ceramic, and stainless steel. The Hartpury study revealed that plastic and ceramic bowls were more likely to have a high population of bacteria thriving in them. Ceramic bowls also had the highest number of different bacteria species living in them.
Stainless steel, however, is not immune to bacteria growth. While it had less bacteria in it than the plastic and ceramic bowls, it still grew bacteria.
The study also revealed that if plastic, stone, and ceramic bowls have any cracks or chips in them, bacteria would grow in those crevices.
Salmonella, MRSA, and E. coli are also transmissible from your pet to you. That means that you and your family can pick up these dangerous bacteria from your pet’s water bowl and from your pet themselves! All three of these bacteria can be life-threatening to humans.
2. Other Dangers in the Water Bowl
Bacteria should be your main concern, but there are other problems with your water and food bowls. The material they are made of not only breeds bacteria but can also make your pet sick in other ways.
2.1 Cancer
Plastic containers and bowls are often made with phthalates: chemicals that make the plastic stronger and more durable. The overall health effects of these chemicals aren’t known. However, one particular phthalate has been identified as an endocrine disrupter and has been linked to cancer.
Drinking from a bowl manufactured with phthalates may cause your pet harm. The plastic eventually leaches chemicals thanks to your pet’s saliva, causing those phthalates to contaminate your pet’s water. Over a long period of time, this leaching can poison your pet.
2.2 Lead Poisoning
When it comes to stoneware and ceramics, your pet is in even graver danger. The FDA has shown that the glazes made in stoneware and ceramics frequently contain lead. Like the phthalates in plastic, lead can leach out of the glazes and contaminate your pet’s water.
While the FDA has said that small amounts of lead are acceptable, they insist that the glaze must be properly treated. Bowls from China and Mexico are not given the same rigorous production treatment as bowls made in the USA. That means that the glazes on the bowls are more likely to be improperly made, allowing for lead poisoning.
2.3 Other Health Effects
Plastic and metal bowls like aluminum are also often made with Bisphenol A (BPA). This chemical is an endocrine disrupter. Unlike phthalates, this chemical has been shown to affect your pet’s gut microbiome. This can cause metabolic changes in your pet that are hazardous to their health.
Stainless steel is not made with BPA. However, if you search for plastic and metal bowls that are advertised as “BPA free,” they may not be. The marketing regulation for these bowls isn’t policed like other products, meaning you may buy one that does have BPA and phthalates in it.
3. What Do I Do?
Stainless steel is the way to go to reduce the dangers in the water bowl, although it still can bread bacteria. Silicone bowls have also been determined safe at this time as an alternative to plastic. However, silicone bowls should be high quality, perhaps “medical grade” or at the very least “food grade.”
Whatever bowl you have for your pet, follow these best practices to keep the dangers in the water bowl safe:
- Always clean the bowl! We recommend daily cleanings. Don’t put it off for a week!
- Make sure the plastic, stone, and ceramic bowls don’t have any chips or cracks in them.
- Buy “BPA and phthalate-free” bowls.
- Make sure glaze-coated bowls are made in countries with regulations like the USA. Otherwise, there may be unsafe levels of lead in them!
Just remember: The best way to keep the dangers in the water bowl away is to keep your bowls clean, your pet will be grateful!
Visit our Kitten Supplies page to see the bowls we recommend and use.
References:
“Life-Threatening Bacteria Thrives in Pets’ Water Bowls, Hartpury Experts Discover.” Hartpury, September 12, 2018, https://www.hartpury.ac.uk/news/2018/09/life-threatening-bacteria-thrives-in-pets-water-bowls-hartpury-experts-discover/.
“Plastic, Stainless Steel, Stoneware, Silicone or Ceramic Bowls?” Hemopet, February 18, 2019. https://hemopet.org/food-water-bowls-companion-pets/.
16 American Shorthair Facts
The American Shorthair is a medium to large cat. It arrived in America by early settlers. They brought them to keep mice and rat population under control.
Soon it became America's own cat and developed into a full-time working cat. Because of its closeness to its human companions, the American Shorthair cat became a very sociable and adaptable cat. It’s incredible mousing abilities earned him the title, a “must have cat.” Farms would find themselves lost without these great mousers. Soon store outlets and homes acquired them for the same purpose. Its menu included mice, rats, squirrels and chipmunks.
More American Shorthair Facts. They became fashionable to own. This very sociable, incredibly beautiful cat was very accepting of other pets and children. Soon it found itself in urban homes. It became the companion we see today, lovable, affectionate, active, and sociable.
The American Shorthair was first known as the Domestic Shorthair. Breeders began breeding their finest qualities and soon its name changed in 1966 to the American Shorthair. The name change represented its “All American” character and it was to differentiate them from their short-haired cousins.
Today there are over 210 different color variations. The American Shorthair is known to have the longest life expectancy of any purebred cat. They are also very healthy and have few health issues. Being an active cat, they will soon become your entertainment. They're very trainable and can be trained with a harness to go for walks. They also like to keep you company and visit pet friendly locations.
Below are some interesting American Shorthair Facts on this precious cat.
16 American Shorthair Facts
- American Shorthairs can weigh 8 to 12 pounds (5.44 kg) at maturity.
- American Shorthair has a thick, dense coat and comes in over 210 colors variations and patterns. Coat might be pure white, silver, cream, blue, reddish, golden, brown or black, or two- and tri-colored (Silver Tabby is the most popular of all colors).
- American Shorthair has massive head, full cheeks, extensive muzzle and robust jaws. It has broad chest, sturdy, muscular physique, thick legs and tail of medium size.
- American Shorthair has large, expressive eyes that may be copper, gold, or green.
- American Shorthair is easy-going, calm and clever cat that’s great in homes with children and other pets, including dogs.
- American Shorthair is a superb cat for those that live alone.
- American Shorthairs are very independent and don’t require a lot of attention.
- American Shorthairs like to play with its family and loves puzzles. It can be taught to perform various tasks.
- American Shorthairs entertain themselves if they don’t have a companion to play with.
- American Shorthair is not very vocal, it doesn’t create a mess in the home when left alone. It likes to relaxation by the window sunbathing and watching birds, squirrels and other animals.
- American Shorthair does well in the company of strangers who visit the home.
- American Shorthair sheds like all other cat breeds. Brushing them once or twice a week is recommended, it’s both therapeutic and great for keeping the coat healthy.
- American Shorthairs have an average littler of two kittens. Because of the square conformation they can only have so many babies.
- American Shorthairs are very healthy; however, they do suffer from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
- American Shorthairs require a well-balanced diet in order to keep good weight and a healthy lifestyle. Raw diets are the best preferred.
- American Shorthairs have the longest life-expectancy of 15 to 20 years.
Visit our Available Kittens page to learn more about our litters and upcoming kittens. For more American Shorthair Facts please visit our History page.
COVID-19 and Companion Pets
In the wake of the news about a dog from Hong Kong possibly having COVID-19, Dr. Dodds and Hemopet have received many emails asking us if our companion pets are safe. Since then, follow up confirmatory testing on this dog was negative, as predicted.
In times of crisis like this, we beg you to listen to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) regarding companion pets and COVID-19.
Please see the excerpts below from the OIE, AVMA and WSAVA. To review the full statements, please click on the link noted at the bottom of each statements.
OIE Statement as of March 14, 2020
What do we know about COVID-19 virus and companion animals?
The current spread of COVID-19 is a result of human to human transmission. To date, there is no evidence that companion animals can spread the disease. Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals which may compromise their welfare.
The Veterinary Services of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China reported to OIE evidence that a dog had tested positive to the COVID-19 virus following close exposure to its owners who were sick with COVID-19 – see Immediate Notification (01/03/2020) and Follow-up report no.1 (09/03/2020). The test, conducted by real time PCR, showed the presence of genetic material from the COVID-19 virus, but the dog was not showing and has not shown any clinical signs of the disease.
There is no evidence that dogs play a role in the spread of this human disease or that they become sick. Further studies are needed to understand if and how different animals might be affected by COVID-19 virus. The OIE will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
There is no evidence to support restrictions to movement or trade of companion animals.
What precautionary measures should be taken by owners when companion or other animals have close contact with humans sick or suspected with COVID-19?
There have not been any reports of companion or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19 and currently there is no evidence that they play a significant epidemiological role in this human disease. However, because animals and people can sometimes share diseases (known as zoonotic diseases), it is still recommended that people who are sick with COVID-19 limit contact with other people and companion and other animals until more information is known about the virus.
When handling and caring for animals, basic hygiene measures should always be implemented. This includes hand washing, preferably with hot soapy water, before and after being around or handling animals, their food, or supplies, as well as avoiding kissing, licking or sharing food.
When possible, people who are sick or under medical attention for COVID-19 should avoid close contact with their pets and have another member of their household care for their animals. If they must look after their pet, they should maintain good hygiene practices and wear a properly fitted face mask whenever possible.
— OIE
AVMA as of Wednesday, March 11, 2020
Q: Can SARS-CoV-2 infect pets?
A: Currently, there is no evidence that pets can become sick. Infectious disease experts, as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), OIE, and WHO indicate there is no evidence to suggest that pet dogs or cats can be a source of infection with SARS-CoV-2, including spreading COVID-19 to people. More investigation is underway and as we learn more, we will update you.
However, because animals can spread other diseases to people and people can also spread diseases to animals, it’s a good idea to always wash your hands as indicated above before and after interacting with animals.
— AVMA
AVMA on Veterinary Medications
Potential supply chain effects
The COVID-19 outbreak has raised concern about potential medical supply issues, including both pharmaceuticals and medical products such as personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, masks, gowns) and surgical drapes. No current shortages are reported by any of the 32 animal drug companies that make finished drugs or source active pharmaceutical ingredients in China for the U.S. market, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, six of the firms have indicated that they see supply chain disruptions that soon could lead to shortages.
— AVMA
Canine Coronavirus Vaccine – Would it help?
No. No. No.
From the WSAVA Statement on March 7, 2020:
Should veterinarians start to vaccinate dogs against canine coronavirus because of the risk of SARSCov-2?
The canine coronavirus vaccines available in some global markets are intended to protect against enteric coronavirus infection and are NOT licensed for protection against respiratory infections. Veterinarians should NOT use such vaccines in the face of the current outbreak thinking that there may be some form of cross-protection against COVID-19. There is absolutely no evidence that vaccinating dogs with commercially available vaccines will provide cross-protection against the infection by COVID-19, since the enteric and respiratory viruses are distinctly different variants of coronavirus. No vaccines are currently available in any market for respiratory coronavirus infection in the dog. [Information from the WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines Group].
— WSAVA
Commentary
Coronaviruses are zoonotic – meaning they jump between species. Scientists are currently racing to find out the animal origin of the novel COVID-19 disease in humans, that is caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first we heard was from two species of snakes, the Bungarus multicinctus (the many-banded krait) and Naja atra (the Chinese cobra). This was doubted by virologists around the globe. Virologist Paulo Eduardo Brandão – who has been specifically researching whether or not snakes can become infected with coronaviruses – simply said there is no supportive evidence to date.
In mid-February, we heard that ant-eating pangolins smuggled into China might be the origin. While these animals are considered better contenders as the source by some researchers, the whole genetic match between the coronavirus circulating within the pangolin population is not close enough to that in the human population.
Thus far, the closest match identified came from bats, but the evidence suggests that an intermediate source between the bat and the human is needed. Indeed, research suggests that Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) has an intermediate source in camels. The 2002-2003 Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak is believed to be bat to civet cat to human transmission.
Clearly, this is a rapidly evolving situation. The best thing to do is keep calm.
Suggestions
We all play a role in personal and community safety. The best approach is to prepare, but not to panic as it raises stress levels that contribute to a reduction in immune function. A healthy immune system is key to recovery against COVID-19.
For a detailed guideline on how to disinfect and clean surfaces in your home, please visit the CDC’s page “How to Protect Yourself”.
In the meantime, Hemopet will keep you up to date on the latest information regarding companion pets as information about this virus becomes available and verified.
References
Brulliard, Karin. “Dog with ‘Low-Level’ Coronavirus Infection Remains Quarantined after Blood Test, Hong Kong Officials Say.” The Washington Post, WP Company, 13 Mar. 2020, https://www.washingtonpost.com/science/2020/03/13/dogs-pets-coronavirus/.
Callaway, Ewen, and David Cyranoski. “Why Snakes Probably Aren’t Spreading the New China Virus.” Nature News, Nature Publishing Group, 23 Jan. 2020, https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-00180-8.
Coronavirus. World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus.
Cyranoski, David. “Mystery Deepens over Animal Source of Coronavirus.” Nature News, Nature Publishing Group, 26 Feb. 2020, https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-00548-w.
Dodds, Jean. “How Does Stress Affect a Dog’s Long-Term Health?” Pet Health Resources Blog, Hemopet, 9 Mar. 2020, https://www.hemopet.org/does-stress-affect-a-dog-long-term-health/.
Dodds, Jean. “The Wuhan Coronavirus and Companion Pets.” Pet Health Resources Blog, Hemopet, 26 Jan. 2020, https://www.hemopet.org/the-wuhan-coronavirus-and-companion-pets-2019-ncov/.
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). World Health Organization, 11 Mar. 2019, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/middle-east-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus-(mers-cov).
SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). World Health Organization, 26 Apr. 2012, https://www.who.int/ith/diseases/sars/en/.
Shared with permission from W. Jean Dodds, DVM
Your Cat and the Flu
Let's dive into this subject and find the many common myths and misconceptions out there regarding this very subject. We want to get down to the nitty-gritty of what our cats can catch from us and what we can give to them. Let's face it, we love to snuggle and stay warm under our cozy blankets when sick.
This is an open invitation for our cats to want to come and snuggle in with us. But is it really healthy for us to be snuggling with our four-legged friends when we are sick? Could we pass this human flu onto our cat? That is the very thing we want to explore today, Your cat and the flu.
Studies have shown that you cannot catch a cat's flu. A cat's flu is not actually caused by the influenza virus but is a viral infection. The flu that humans get is caused by influenza A, B, and C. However, the cat flu is still a virus, meaning that antibiotics will not help treat it. Some people don't understand the difference between a virus and a bacterial infection. A virus is not treatable by antibiotics.
Your cat can catch your flu!
It is thought that our animals can catch our diseases. In fact, that is why there are so many mutations of a virus. While you are down with the flu, you should avoid the cat as much as you avoid other family and friends. This will help you not spread the virus from you to your cat.
However, there is yet another step that you might consider as well, this is that the cat's fur could carry the virus to other family members as well.
Think about it, when you sneeze or rub your eyes, you could be picking up the virus and potentially putting it on the cat. It is important that you are constantly washing your hands and avoiding contact with your cat.
Your cat and the flu are not a good mixture. However, it is hard sometimes to get the cat to understand. Especially if you are an on the go person that is now laying there, basically asking for them to lay on you.
Keep hydrated
Typically, your cat's flu and your flu have pretty much the same symptoms. For the most part, you will just need to stay in and rest. Be sure to stay hydrated and get plenty of fluids and always have fresh water out for your cat as well. To get even more fluids into them, you might moisten their food too.
Sometimes the flu can turn into a bacterial infection such as pneumonia or a sinus infection. This typically is followed up by green phlegm in both you and your cat. When looking at your cat and the flu, these have some similarities. If the cat has green phlegm, this is a good indication that you should probably see the vet. Bacterial infections can be taken care of with antibiotics.
Make sure you know who the cat has been in contact with. It may not have been with you. In fact, they may not have had contact with anyone but you. However, we carry germs from the outside in on our clothing and shoes. These germs can reach your cat, but they simply coexist with you. This is not to make you paranoid, but just aware.
There are many reasons for a cat to get sick and just because they didn't seem exposed, they certainly could have been.
Good Hygiene is important!
Cat flu comes from other cats. However, that doesn't mean that your cat has to be exposed to other cats. In fact, like all flu cases, the cat could catch it from being around you. And some cats that are carriers of the disease have no symptoms at all. This is important to note so you can further understand your cat and the flu.
Cats release the flu bug in tears, saliva, nasal secretions and even in their urine. It can survive in most environments for up to a week. Because it is transmitted by saliva, most cats that are sick will have the virus on their fur. Be sure to always wash your hands well before touching another cat.
When looking for signs notice there are similarities to spreading the disease. Always wash the hands well and often. And washing clothing is also important. Good hygiene isn't just for the vain but it is to keep you and those around you healthy.
To read more about caring for your American Shorthair cat click here.