CA
SPECIMEN-0301
TOXIC

Cardinal Flower

Lobelia cardinalis

⚠ TOXIC - BANISH FROM HOME
Dr. Mittens on the Cardinal Flower

The Verdict 🐾

Ah, dear humans, gather 'round as I, Dr. Mittens, unveil the truth about the Cardinal Flower. Spoiler alert: this vibrant beauty is as toxic as a vacuum cleaner in my domain! Yes, indeed, it shall be banished from your garden, for I do not approve of its presence in your space.

The Taste Test

Now, why might a curious feline like myself be tempted to nibble on this flashy red plant? Well, it certainly looks like a delightful toy, flaunting its bright colors as if it were begging for a game of "pounce and chew." Perhaps it wiggles in the wind, teasing the instinctual hunter within. But let us not be fooled, dear humans; this isn't a feathered friend, and one taste could lead to a rather unfortunate game of "guess who's not feeling well."

The Puke Factor

If a cat were to indulge in this botanical blunder, the results would be nothing short of catastrophic. Expect rapid expulsions of lunch, accompanied by the unmistakable sounds of regret. Other symptoms might include excessive drooling (not the glamorous kind), lethargy (the kind that makes you want to curl up and ignore your human), and a general aura of despair. This flower is clearly not meant for a refined palate like mine!

Human Instructions

Dear human servants, heed my advice: banish this green invader from your realm! Remove it from your garden, lest you witness the unfortunate consequences of your feline friend’s culinary curiosity. Trust me; your cat will thank you (even if they don't say so). Let's keep that furball of a friend healthy and happy, shall we?


Dr. Mittens' Safety FAQ 🐾

What happens if my cat eats Cardinal Flower?

Caution: Cardinal Flower is toxic. If your cat has nibbled on it, monitor for symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite and contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

How can I keep my cat away from Cardinal Flower?

Banishment is best. If you must keep it, ensure it is in a room the cat cannot access, or use high, unreachable shelves. Alternatively, consider a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s?k=cat+deterrent+spray+for+plants&tag=duriancat-20" target="_blank">cat-safe deterrent spray</a> to protect both your cat and your greenery.

Specimen Lab Specs

Common Aliases: cardinal flower, red lobelia

Dr. Mittens Suggests: Swap this for a safe Bee Balm (Monarda didyma).

SHARE THIS LAB REPORT:

Shop Cat-Safe Supplies on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support the Lab!

Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian, and Dr. Mittens is just a mascot. This site provides data based on public research. Always consult a pro for medical issues.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.