Feather Geranium
Dysphania botrys · Amaranthaceae
How it looks
Feather Geranium is a gray-green herb whose leaves are deeply divided like feathers and give off a strong scent when rubbed. The stem grows straight to nearly 3 ft (1 m), and small green and yellow flowers gather like a spike. It commonly grows outdoors as a weed.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Feather Geranium contain irritating compounds that can cause drooling if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble on Feather Geranium rarely leads to serious trouble, but the oxalates it contains irritate the stomach and mucous membranes, causing mild digestive upset. Make a habit of picking up fallen leaves and broken stems the same day, and keep the pot out of your cat's reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite drops noticeably, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Salivation, weakness
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Dysphania botrys
- Common name
- Feather Geranium
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Oxalic acid
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Salivation, weakness
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
Also known as
Related plants
Same plant family· Amaranthaceae
Related guides
Top 10 Flowers Dangerous to Cats — The Ones You See at Florists
Ten flowers you'll commonly find at florists and grocery stores that are toxic to cats. Check before you receive them, and before you bring them home.
Got a Bouquet? What to Do If You Have a Cat
A bouquet is a lovely surprise — but if you live with a cat, there are a few things to take care of right away. From checking what's in the arrangement to choosing the right vase, here's what actually helps, in order.
Why Cats Chew Plants, and How to Stop It
A cat chewing and tearing at plants isn't just mischief — there's an instinct behind it. Once you understand why, the ways to stop it follow naturally.