Orange
Citrus sinensis · Rutaceae
How it looks
The orange tree is an evergreen tree with large, glossy, oval deep-green leaves and fragrant white star-shaped flowers. The branches bear thorns, and round orange fruits develop. The leaves and rind carry a strong orange scent. Height 10–20 ft (3–6 m).
Mild caution — stomach irritation
The bark and seeds of Orange contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression 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 of Orange usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the limonene and furocoumarins in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or 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's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Citrus sinensis
- Common name
- Orange
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Toxic parts
- Bark, Seeds
- Compounds
- Limonene, Furocoumarins
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
- 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· Rutaceae
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