To keep the philodendron at bay, use floating pots, hangers, or floating shelves. In small pets, grayanotoxin poisoning is often deadly. Areca palm (Dypsis lutescens) Blue echeveria (Echeveria glauca) Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa) Phalaenopsis orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.) Curiosity typically rules when it comes to cats, so they probably will explore your plants time and again. Snowdrop (also seeGalanthus) "Cats are not able to metabolize chemicals found in the plant; therefore, those chemicals can damage your cat's internal organs.". Euphorbia* Angel Wings (also seeCaladium) Identifying features: More than 1,000 species of shrubs that can be deciduous or evergreen, large or small, with flowers of pink, white, red, or blue that bloom for several months in spring, summer, or early fall depending on the species. Yes, philodendron is poisonous to cats as per ASPCA. For cats, the philodendron family, which includes Swiss cheese plant, heartleaf, and fiddle-leaf philodendron, has a mild to moderate toxicity level. Unfortunately cactus and succulents do not thrive in incredibly humid environments, for this reason, it may be best to wait to place an order when your local forecast is less humid and more suitable for shipping live plants. How will my cats respond to succulents? Raw Eggs 16. Eating even a few leaves can cause serious. Calcium oxalate crystals have a mild effect on humans in general, and large amounts must be consumed for symptoms to appear. The World Checklist of Selected Plant Families accepted 489 species as of September 2015; other sources accept different numbers. Philodendrons are common house plants and also a very common part of tropical landscaping in the southern US. Eating philodendron can cause oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty in swallowing in cats. Otherwise, try to keep the plant out of reach of the animals. Identifying features: Soft green, roundish leaves with a strong minty scent. Is It Effective For Cleaning? Avocado (also seePersea americana) Croton (also seeCodiaeum) Identifying features: Glossy, scallop-edged, dark green leaves; clusters of small rosette flowers in shades of yellow, orange, pink, red, or white. Symptoms of Philodendron Poisoning in Cats. Identifying features: Clumps of leaves that resemble tiny lily pads, with white, pink, lavender, or red flowers rising above the leaves on stems. Buckthorn (also seeRhamnus) Some common plants that are toxic to cats include: You can visit the Pet Poison Helpline to see theTop 10 Plants Poisonous to Pets, or the ASPCA for their extensive list ofToxic and Non-Toxic Plants. But, given the opportunity, cats like to nibble on grass. Mild dermatitis has also been reported as a result of contact with the leaves, with symptoms including vesiculation and erythema. Agitation, pawing at the face and mouth, drooling, foaming, and coughing are all signs of this. Then call the California Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222 for more help. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycoside toxins, poisons that affect the cardiac muscles and can lead to death. Horse Chestnut (also seeAesculus) ", Cornell University: "Common Cat Toxicities," "Poisons. We like the use of these euphorbia as small shrubbing barriers as it grows only to 4' tall in containers. You just need a little knowledge and prevention, so read on . These are indicated in the list below. Henbane (also seeHyoscyamus) Juniperus sabina Ornithogalum) Succulents That Are Resistant to Freezing, How to Care for a Baby Doll Cordyline Plant, San Marcos Growers: Euphorbia Leucodendron, Michigan State University: Euphorbia Leucodendron, Washington State University Clark County Extension: Euphorbia, International Euphorbia Society: About Euphorbiaceae, USDA: U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zone Map, 17 gardening gifts for the plant-lovers in your life. Lantana What You Need To Know. All parts of all types of philodendrons are toxic to most animals, including dogs, cats, horses, birds and even people. In this article, well explain how to identify these toxic plants and what could happen to your cat if they eat one. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your cat to the veterinarian right away. Its best if you dont try to cure your cat yourself, as this can make things worse. Foxglove (also seeDigitalis) It could be the luck of the Irish. Learn More. Taxus Identifying features: Large green leaves shaped like spearheads, with greenish-white variegation. Chincherinchee (also see This will help the vet to find a treatment or antidote to the poison. But resist the urge to buy if your cat is nearby. Rhus* On the flipside, if you want to keep your kitty (and others around the neighborhood) from pillaging your prized plants, learn How to Keep Cats Out of Your Yard and Garden. Your purchase directly supports the leading global cat welfare charity, International Cat Care. Identifying features: Large, waxy, dark green leaves and stalks with a single flower each; flowers are creamy white with a cylindrical seed pod in the center. In cyclamen, the poisonous compound called cyclamine is most concentrated in the root, or tuber, portion of the plant. Identifying features: Large, star-shaped evergreen leaves that can be green, maroon, purplish, or bronze colored; bright red flowers that look like spiky balls can bloom year-round. Chocolate 5. This means that rinsing the mouth area may be all that is required, though your cat may benefit from something cool to eat or drink, such as an ice cube or milk, to alleviate the oral discomfort until you can get more information from your veterinarian. Looking for lawn mowing, fertilization, gutter cleaning, leaf removal, yard cleanup, or something else? Lilies can be highly toxic to cats. For your cats, the philodendron is mildly poisonous. The plant may grow up to 12 feet tall, with a similar. Philodendrons are one of many house plants that are toxic to cats. Tomato (also seeLycopersicon) If you notice any of the aforementioned symptoms in your cat, or you catch them snacking on something toxic, take action immediately. Itsname describes it, for parent hens produce baby chick" rosettes. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain saponins, which affect the gastrointestinal system and sometimes the respiratory system and neurological pathways. Most of us are surrounded by plants, both wild and cultivated, in our homes and gardens and come to no harm. You should, however, avoid toxic plants that are harmful to cats as a pet parent. Identifying features: Fall-blooming flowers with feathery petals in bright orange, yellow, red, pink, lavender, or purple, depending on the species. Hyacinthus Call the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-764-7661or Animal Poison Control at 1-888-426-4435. Convulsions, renal failure, and coma are all possible side effects of Philodendron poisoning. Occasionally this is misdiagnosed as gingivitis. They can help you know what to do next. Continue reading to learn about clinical symptoms and what to do if your pet has been exposed! Hardy to at least 25 F. This unusual plant looks a bit like horsetail (Equisetum sp.) Quercus They can help you know what to do next. Brugmansia It has narrow pale green cylindrical and jointed stems that rise erectly and then arch outwards to form a mass as wide as tall. This will keep the cat and the plant safe from each other. Poisonous characteristics: This plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate and penetrate tissue in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. If you're not sure if a plant is poisonous to cats, you can visit the ASPCA website for a complete list to avoid bringing anything dangerous into your home. Colchicum Bloom Color: Bright Yellow. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant are extremely poisonous. Cotoneaster Philodendron is mildly poisonous to cats. If your cat or dog nibbles on one or two leaves from the plant, it may not have much of an effect. Even ingesting the smallest part of any of the lily plant may cause intoxication and death. Glory Lily (also seeGloriosa superba) But even free-roaming adult cats may accidentally ingest needles or seeds that have become entangled in their coat during grooming. Galanthus Thuja* Jasminum The genus Philodendron is still poorly understood taxonomically, with many unnamed species. Ingestion can still lead to vomiting and diarrhea, however, as well as foaming at the mouth and swelling of the face and facial features. Yeast 14. None of the other Leucadendrons are listed as poisonous - does anybody have more information? "Eucalyptus is poisonous to cats," Dr. Bustamante told The Dodo. Cats are more inquisitive than dogs. Your cats breathing may be difficult, or he may breathe in rapid shallow gasps. Category B plants should be avoided. Gloriosa, Flame Lily: The toxic agent in the Gloriosa, or flame lily, is colchicine, which is toxic to rapidly dividing cells in the body, which can cause multiorgan failure in cats that chew . Scilla The presence of plant material in the vomitus will aid in the confirmation of the preliminary diagnosis. Poisonous characteristics: The plant, especially the bulbs, contains the toxin lycorine, which induces vomiting and gastrointestinal upset. Philodendrons are poisonous to cats, so keep them away from the plant. Garlic 12. In cats, these plants may cause blistering or itching of the mouth and gums. Take samples of vomit, stool, and the poison your cat ate to the vet with your cat. As a result, if you have cats in the house, you must exercise greater caution. Pernettya and is one of the succulent euphorbias sometimes called "coraliform" or "coraliformes" types, with common names such as Stick Plant, Stick Cactus. Hypoestes phyllostachya Plants are unlike other decorative focal points in that they are growing, ever-changing, living things that require your love and attention to thrive. Ruta Theres always the possibility that your pet will try out a house plantor even eat itwhich, in the case of Philodendron ingestion, could be fatal. However, a small percentage of these plants have the potential to cause harm to ourselves and our cats. Otherwise, you can feed tuna water or a mild chicken broth. Outdoors the story is not so simple. Poisonous characteristics: All species of irises contain glycoside compounds, which irritate internal tissue and can potentially cause a variety of health issues. Allium All parts are highly toxic, resulting in digestive problems, vomiting and diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, depression, and death. Yew. Chewing Gum 4. Thank you for supporting International Cat Care through your shop purchases! Petunias. Are Ferns Toxic to Cats? Free-roaming cats have access to many gardens so it will be impossible to prevent all possible contact with potentially harmful plants. 14 Rabbit Myths And Misconceptions You Need To Stop Believing Now! Boredom also has a part to play. If you suspect your cat has eaten philodendron, dont hesitate to contact your veterinarian. The best way to protect your furbaby is not to keep any poisonous plants around in the first place. Contact with the leaves of food plants such as tomato, strawberry, rhubarb, parsnips, carrot, celery, marrow and cucumbers may all potentially affect the cat in this way. Curiosity can kill the cat, but now you know which plants to pick and which preventive measures to take. 2. They are rich in textures, colors, and shapes. A veterinary surgeon should be contacted immediately if your cat suddenly collapses, has repeated vomiting or severe diarrhoea, or shows signs of excessive irritation (redness, swelling, blistering or rawness) of the skin of the mouth or throat. Tagetes Both cats and dogs are poisoned by the philodendron. The philodendron is a genus of plants that includes more than 400 species, including the popular Swiss cheese plant. Euphorbia leucodendron (Cat Tails Euphorbia) An interesting spineless succulent shrub that grows to 4 to 6 feet tall but can ultimately reach to 12 feet. Unlocking The Mystery, Why Is My Black Cat Turning Brown? Jade. The plant may grow up to 12 feet tall, with a similar spread, though in containers it more commonly grows to a modest 4 to 6 feet. Youll be able to keep the philodendron away from your cat if you follow these guidelines. Identifying features: Tall spikes of tubular, drooping flowers in varying shades of purple, pink, or white. To treat philodendron poisoning in cats rinse the mouth with milk or water. Bloodroot (also seeSanguinaria) Hen and chicksare great for humans, but not so for cats. Laburnum Digitalis Nicole is the proud mom of 3 rescue fur babies, Baby, a Burmese cat; Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway; and Mac, a Lab/Mastiff. Motoring products such as antifreeze, brake fluid, petrol and windscreen washer fluid. It is somewhat similar to the Euphorbia tirucalli but with much smaller diameter stems and is less branching, though it is sometimes commonly called Pencil Tree and Milk Bush, the same names as used for E. tirucalli and it is also sometimes called the Yellow-leaf Bush Euphorbia. Monks Wood (also seeAconitum) If your cat ingests any of this plant, give them tuna water to get rid of the crystals and yogurt to ease the symptoms. Unit living can be a "gilded prison" for dogs. Papaver Poisonous characteristics: The leaves and berries contain triterpenoid saponins, which irritate the gastrointestinal system. Leucadendron 'Red Dwarf' has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK. If you suspect a pet or child has ingested yew, don't wait to see. The faster you act, the better chance you have of saving your kitty from a severe reaction. Their novelty value may encourage inquisitive chewing. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain sharp insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which will pierce the tissue of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. 15 St. Patrick's Day Decoration IdeasFrom Ornamental Cabbage to DIY Rainbows Feeling lucky? How To Treat Philodendron Poisoning In Cats? Many symptoms of contact with the calcium oxalate crystals from consuming philodendron plants are visible right away, which means that identifying the plant in combination with your canines symptoms is often enough to make an initial diagnosis. According the to ASPCA, chemical compounds that are toxic to pets can be concentrated in different parts of the plant-sometimes the roots, sometimes leaves, flowers, or seeds. When the plant is chewed or bit by a dog or cat, the crystals embed themselves in the oral cavity, penetrating the tissue and causing pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips. However, there are a few to be cautious of, like poinsettias and jade plants. . Fremontodendron* Learn more. Bird of Paradise (also seeStrelitzia) Box (also seeBuxus) Always seek the advice of a veterinarian before administering any medications. Identifying features: Spear-shaped leaves growing in a cluster; tny white, bell-shaped flowers drooping from stems among the leaves, Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycosides, which affect the heart and the gastrointestinal system, Identifying features: Large, mounding shrubs with clusters of small, delicate flowers in pink, white, peach, yellow, or burgundy. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. The less temptation for interaction, the better (not to mention, easier) for you. Signs of eucalyptus poisoning . Holly (also seeIlex) Identifying features: Soft, velvety dark green leaves and large, bright red flowers. Aleurites There are a number of plants that can be quite toxic to cats. Identifying features: Grass-like foliage aboveground; garlic pods underground; garlic smell. Identifying features: Stiff, waxy fronds; spiky trunk; seed pods growing in the center can be tall and cone-like (male plants) or squat and round (female plants). Dendranthema) Thankfully, the problem will rarely be worse than a sore stomach or, if your cat gets the crystals in its eyes, it could also lead to watering eyes. Baneberry (also seeActaea) Poisonous characteristics: The green parts of the plant, not the ripe tomato fruit itself, contain solanine, which affects the gastrointestinal tract when consumed in large quantities. Other treatments may be required based on the toxin involved and the cats condition. Azalea (also seeRhododendron) Its needle-like crystals can be found on plant leaves, stems, and other plant parts. Flax (also seeLinum) Euphorbia Leucodendron - Cat Tails. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain a toxic alkaloid called colchicine, which can cause severe damage to the gastrointestinal system, liver, kidneys, respiratory system, or central nervous system. Search our database of over 12348 posts with up-to-date information from our experts and veterinarians. Spindle Tree (also seeEuonymus) Chrysanthemum (also see Be sure to follow your veterinarians instructions and ask any questions you might have. Weakness. There are many varieties of the dumbcaneincluding the giant dumbcane, charming dieffenbachia and exotica perfectand all these plants are toxic to cats. A member of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), the Euphorbia genus consists of approximately 2,000 species of shrubs, vines, trees and herbaceous plants. Senecio Gaultheria Stick with succulents that are cat-safe, like the Cat Friendly Collection available at Succulent Market. What are the symptoms of toxic poisoning in cats? Take samples of vomit, stool, and the poison your cat ate to the vet with your cat. There are still the issues of keeping your cat happy and, most importantly, out of trouble. Astragalus Contact with some of the plants listed may be sufficient to cause skin irritation (marked*). Alstroemeria* The toxin can irritate your pets mouths and cause their lips to swell. Plants have the ability to bring a room to life. Atropa This list may help your vet if poisoning is suspected. Identifying features: Bright red trumpet-shaped flowers with six petals, sometimes with white striations. If your cat is having trouble swallowing, choking, or pawing at his or her mouth, its time to take him or her to the vet right away. Causes and Solutions, Irritation to the mouth lips, eyes, and tongue. Never give your pet any pills without first talking to your vet, though -- it's easy to give them the wrong medicine or too much, which can kill them. Poisonous characteristics: Garlic contains N-propyl disulfide, which causes gastrointestinal upset and anemia in cats if consumed in large quantities. Identifying features: Shrubs with round clusters of small flowers in blue, pink, purple, or white. Sometimes, yes. Burning Bush (also seeDictamnus) Dendranthema* Its best if you can find a spot for the plant that is high enough to keep it away from your cats. Columbine (also seeAquilegia) Polygonatum Sure, you could try placing toxic plants on a high shelf or other hard-to-reach spots, but that just looks like a challenge to most cats. As with many plants in the Euphorbia family, use extra care when handling this plant, especially if the stems are cut or broken as the white milky sap can cause skin irritation or damage to eyes upon contact and all plant parts are poisonous if eaten. If you want to keep plants in your house, or if you let your cat out into your yard, you need to be able to accurately identify plants and flowers that are poisonous to cats. iCatCare may receive a commission or share in the net profit of some purchases made through the affiliate links. The fact that the list contains some very common plants should not be cause for concern. We will also check things like essential oils and diffusers to make sure that they are safe to have in the house with cats, but one group of items that we are less vigilant about is houseplants. When tests like a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and urinalysis are run, they can reveal any coexisting diseases or disorders. Poisoning in cats is therefore generally rare. Zebra Plant (also seeAphelandra), Abrus precatorius Almost all types of pets are poisoned by philodendrons. Other plants may have a systemic effect and damage or alter the function of a cats organs, like the kidney or heart. Anagallis Identifying features: Drooping lavender flowers that resemble clumps of grapes. Elephants Ear (also seeAlocasia, Sweet Pea (also seeLathyrus) In spring and summer at branch tips also appear the very small yellow-green flower structures (cyathia) that hold the even smaller flowers and the developing fruit is red and somewhat heartshaped. . You can also ensure that any new additions to the garden are safe. But, generally, the following flowers are considered safe for cats: Lilacs. Poisonous characteristics: Eucalyptus oil can damage cats internal organs because they arent able to digest it. More architechtual than its more wild counter part, Euphorbia Tirucalli, the Euphorbia Leucodendron has thicker, more erect, and less bushy branches. Avocado 3. Choking and throat swelling, as well as dysphagia, or the inability to swallow, are all possible poisoning symptoms. Hydrangea Your vet may also administer medication like sucralfate, which protects the damaged areas of the stomach. Black-eyed Susan (also see Although it rarely requires veterinary treatment, you should monitor the symptoms and consult your vet if they do get worse. Schefflera* Lilies, sago palms, oleander, rhododendrons, tulips and more are toxic to cats, so bear this in mind when planting a garden or bringing plants into the house. All plants, even grass, can have an irritating effect on a cats gastrointestinal system causing it to vomit. 17 Foods That Are Poisonous to Cats 1. Robinia Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain essential oils that will upset your cats stomach if ingested or cause skin irritation on contact. The best diagnosis is made by identifying the plant. As a result, even if the pet eats a single leaf, it will experience oral irritation and digestive problems. To prevent dehydration, intravenous fluid treatment will be offered, and if an antihistamine has not been previously administered, it may be given as an intramuscular injection at this time. Difficulty breathing (if the airways are affected), Drooling or difficulty swallowing (if the mouth, throat or, Vomiting (if the stomach or small intestines are affected), Diarrhea (if the small intestines or colon are affected), Excessive drinking and urinating (if the kidneys are affected), Fast, slow, or irregular heart beat and weakness (if the heart is affected). Solomons Seal (also seePolygonatum) Calcium oxalate is an oxalic acid-based calcium salt that causes irritation and numbness in the tissues it comes into contact with. The name philodendron comes from the Greek words Philo-, which means love, affection, and dendron, which means tree.. White lilies are especially toxic to cats. Support International Cat Care from as little 3, Sign up to our monthly newsletter and free e-magazine Intelligent Cat Care, Sign up to our monthly charity newsletter, Reg Charity 1117342 (England and Wales) Place Farm, Chilmark Road, Tisbury, Wiltshire, SP3 6LW, You are now being re-directed to an external website www.thecatgallery.co.uk. Increased salivation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing may also occur in an affected pet. Several days may pass between the ingestion of the undesirable material and the effects. Bryony Identifying features: Rounded spikes of small flowers in spring colors such as lavender, pink, purple, blue, or white. Prunus laurocerasus You could also call your local emergency vet, too. There are over 10,000 types of succulents ranging in size, color, and texture. What are the causes of philodendron poisoning in cats? Ifit's one of the toxicsucculents, chewing might result in varied degrees of pet illness and of course unwanted leaf damage and /or plant loss. Philodendrons arent good for cats. Is it safe togrow any succulents if I have cats? Do you still have any queries related to cats or want to share some experiences with your feline friend, why don't you join us on Facebook with other cat lovers? One such plant that is toxic to cats is philodendron. Eucalyptus. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycoside toxins, poisons that affect the cardiac muscles and can lead to death. This is a common weed with pretty but poisonous leaves and berries. . If you need to give your catfirst aid for mild oral reactions, rinse her mouth with water and give her yogurt, milk, cheese, or any other calcium-rich food. Lobelia*(except beddingLobelia) WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. A list of plants that are unsuitable for a house with cats is given below. Prunus persica . Is Leucadendron 'Red Dwarf' poisonous? Oxalate Rich Foods 13. Plant in full sun or light shade (more compact in sun) in a well drained soil and water infrequently if at all. If you swallow any of the sap or plant material, the inflammation will usually spread down your throat and into your gastrointestinal tract. Lily of the Valley (also seeConvallariamajalis) Mistletoe can also lead to death. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycoside toxins, which interfere with the heart muscle and often cause gastrointestinal upset. Ornithogalum Cats that ingest only small amounts of plants containing calcium oxalate crystals, such as the philodendron, usually have a good prognosis. Despite the fact that dogs and cats are primarily carnivores, they are also curious animals who occasionally nibble on plants. You should also keep the plant out of your childrens reach. Identifying features: Spiky, needle-like foliage; red berries. Poisonous characteristics: The plant, especially the seeds and pods, contain lectin and wisterin glycoside, which can upset the gastrointestinal system. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain saponins, which cause irritation when ingested in small quantities but can cause far more severe issues even death if consumed in large quantities. They might dig it up or find one in the garden shed, toss it around and then start chewing on it, potentially resulting in them being poisoned. Identifying features: Feathery green leaves; tomato fruits. The Leucodendron is often thrown into the same . Some common plants that are toxic to cats include: Amaryllis (Amaryllis . An effective antidote is available but must be used very soon after the cat has taken the tablet. Aquilegia Flowers That Are Safe For Cats. Nightshade, Deadly (also seeAtropa) Leucadendron plants are relatives of Protea plants. Many toxic plants are irritants: they cause localized inflammation of the skin, mouth, stomach, etc. Your veterinarian may give your cat medications to encourage vomiting and/or activated charcoal to absorb any of the toxin that may be in the gut. Because cats dislike clusters, keep the plant in the bookshelf with other items like books to make it clustered. keep the cat and the plant safe from each other, https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/heartleaf-philodendron, https://www.abc.net.au/everyday/common-poisonous-plants-to-dogs-and-cats/10105914, https://www.thespruce.com/houseplants-toxic-to-dogs-4775357, Do Black Cats Shed? Human kidney stones are made up of insoluble calcium oxalates, which are also found in philodendrons. Cat tails euphorbia must be handled with care, as the sap of the plant contains resins and glycosides that can cause skin irritation and eye damage upon contact. Oleander, even in small amounts, can kill your cat. Regardless of species count, the genus is the second-largest in the Araceae family, after Anthurium. Writer and Mommy of 3 furr babies: Apples 7. Raw Meat 15. All parts of this conifer are poisonous, especially to horses, for whom a very low dose can be fatal. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the sago palm contain cycasin, a dangerous toxin that affects the liver, nervous system, and gastrointestinal system. Your kitty may beg when you sit down to eat (or try to steal some bites when youre not looking), but some human foods can be poisonous for them, including: Common houseplants -- and a few others that you may bring into your home -- can be hazardous to your cat's health, including the follwoing: Some chemicals taste especially good to cats. If you see your cat eat something that you suspect to be poisonous, do not attempt to make the cat vomit. If your cat does eat one, symptoms start with vomiting and diarrhea and can cause a loss of appetite as well as kidney damage and organ failure.