Barbados Pride Poisoning in Cats

Barbados Pride, scientific name, Caesalpinia pulcherrima, is the national flower of Barbados. The plant is native to the tropics and subtropics of the Americas, but can be cultivated for medicinal and ornamental purposes in various locations. It is a very ornamental and flamboyant flowering plant, with bright red, orange and yellow sunset-colored flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees. Other common names for Barbados Pride include dwarf poinciana, peacock flower, and bird of paradise, although the common name bird of paradise is used to refer to several different plants and confusion may arise in identifying plants with this name. 

Barbados Pride, scientific name, Caesalpinia pulcherrima, is the national flower of Barbados. The plant is native to the tropics and subtropics of the Americas, but can be cultivated for medicinal and ornamental purposes in various locations. It is a very ornamental and flamboyant flowering plant, with bright red, orange and yellow sunset-colored flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees. Other common names for Barbados Pride include dwarf poinciana, peacock flower and bird of paradise, although the common name bird of paradise is used to refer to several different plants and confusion may arise in identifying plants with this name. 

Symptoms of Barbados Pride poisoning in cats are primarily gastrointestinal and mild to moderate in nature, however the amount of plant ingested and sensitivity of your cat may result in more severe symptoms. 

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Irritation/burn in the mouth
• Salivation/drooling
• Lethargy
• Impaired coordination

Ingestion of Barbados Pride plants or their seeds can cause Barbados Pride toxicity in cats. The leaves of this plant contain hydrogen cyanide and the seeds and seed pods contain tannins, both of which are toxic to cats and produce symptoms of gastrointestinal disorder. 

Cats are naturally curious creatures and may sample plants in their environment. As humans frequently keep this plant in their home or garden for medicinal or ornamental purposes, a curious cat may chew on or ingest the plant accidentally. 

If you suspect Barbados Pride plant poisoning, seek veterinary help immediately. As with all poisoning cases, early medical intervention will result in the best outcome. If possible, take a cutting of the plant you suspect your cat of ingesting to your veterinarian to assist them with identification and diagnosis. Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination, checking for vital signs and symptoms of poisoning. A complete medical history of your cat will be taken and specific exposure to toxic plants such as Barbados Pride determined. Your veterinarian may perform tests such as blood and urine tests and radiographs to rule out other conditions and determine any organ damage resulting from plant toxicity.

Barbados Pride poisons are absorbed quickly into your cat's system and purging them is usually not an available option, as absorption has occurred before poisoning is discovered. Your veterinarian will start supportive care for poisoning immediately which will include intravenous therapy for dehydration, oxygen therapy to address respiratory symptoms, and appropriate cardiac medication or medication to address deficits in other organ system functioning.

The amount of toxic plant ingestion and the time between ingestion and treatment are both factors in recovery from Barbados Plant poisoning. Your cat will require rest and possibly a special diet and medication to address any organ system damage that may have occurred. It is recommended that pet owners follow up with their veterinarian to ensure complete recovery is recommended.

Ensure that Barbados Pride and any other toxic plants are kept out of access of a cat that is apt to chew on plants by removing these plants from your house or garden. As Barbados Pride may be part of floral arrangements, remember to keep floral arrangements that may contain this or other toxic plants out of reach of your pet.