Feeding Behavior-Related Toxicity due to Nandina domestica in Cedar Waxwings (Bombycilla cedrorum)

Indoor Companion Animal Poisoning by Plants in Europe

Indoor plant poisoning poses serious threats to companion animals. One of the major reasons of this kind of hazard can be identified in the increased amount of time that the pets spend indoor, sharing the domestic environment with their owners. In this review, the toxic houseplants most commonly associated with companion animal poisoning in Europe and well-documented in the literature are emphasized. An analysis of the major and emerging plant species accountable for companion animal poisoning is proposed, in order to provide a framework of the factors influencing these incidents. Indeed, knowing the way substances may induce toxic effects in companion animals can be useful in allowing easier diagnosis and treatment processes. In conclusion, the Authors argue that a better characterization of the phenomenon, as well as of its extent, would be allowed by the availability of a centralized system for the data collection. Furthermore, better information and awareness on the issue may help developing a focused corrective approach to prevent indoor pet poisoning in Europe.

Pediatric Nandina domestica ingestions reported to poison centers

Nandina domestica is grown as an ornamental plant in the United States but has also been reported as an invasive plant in a number of states. Parts of the plant, particularly the berries, contain cyanogenic glycosides that convert to hydrogen cyanide when ingested. This investigation characterized N. domestica ingestions involving patients of age 5 years and less reported to Texas poison centers during 2000-2015. There were 875 total N. domestica ingestions. A seasonal pattern was observed with the highest proportion of ingestions occurring in March (18.5%) and April (14.7%). The patients were male in 55.0% of the cases; 40.8% of the patients were of age 1 and 37.0% of age 2. Berries were specifically mentioned in 709 ingestions, of which 57.3% involved one berry and 28.5% an unknown number of berries. The ingestion occurred at the patient's own residence in 92.9% of the cases, and the patient was managed on site in 97.0%. The most frequently reported clinical effects were vomiting (3.7%), abdominal pain (1.0%), diarrhea (0.9%), and nausea (0.7%). In conclusion, N. domestica ingestions among young children generally do not result in serious outcomes and can be managed successfully outside of a healthcare facility.