Buckeye
Aesculus spp · Sapindaceae
How it looks
The Buckeye is a deciduous tree with large palmate leaves divided into 5–7 leaflets, arranged in opposite pairs. In spring, yellow or red flowers bloom in conical clusters. In autumn, a leathery fruit holds a round, brown seed inside, and the tree reaches 30–65 ft (10–20 m) tall.
Caution — monitor for GI symptoms
All parts of Buckeye (especially the seeds and leaves) contain aesculin and related compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle weakness if chewed. Large amounts can lead to paralysis, so contact your vet if symptoms persist.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble on Buckeye rarely leads to serious trouble, but its aesculin and saponins can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes, causing mild gastrointestinal upset. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves and broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat shows a marked loss of appetite, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, paralysis
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
Details
- Scientific name
- Aesculus spp
- Common name
- Buckeye
- Family
- Sapindaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts (especially the seeds, Leaves)
- Compounds
- Aesculin, Saponins
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, paralysis
- Action
- Consult a vet and monitor. Go in immediately if symptoms worsen.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Sapindaceae
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