Figwort
Ranunculus acris · Ranunculaceae
How it looks
Figwort is a plant with deeply lobed dark green leaves arranged opposite and small yellow cup-shaped five-petaled flowers that bloom in clusters along the branches. It reaches 12-31 in (30-80 cm) tall, and its petals are smooth and glossy, resembling a buttercup.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Figwort contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and 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 Figwort rarely leads to serious trouble, but the protoanemonin it contains irritates 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
- Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Ranunculus acris
- Common name
- Figwort
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Protoanemonin
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Ranunculaceae
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