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Tricia, a good client of mine, was in recently and asked about an article she saw on the Internet regarding poisoning caused by the Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta). Apparently this particular plant is becoming quite popular in local stores and gardening centers where it is sold as an ornamental plant.

A little research confirmed Tricia's fears. The plant contains three toxic principles, the primary one being cycasin. Ingestion of the leaves, flowers, or seeds can lead to liver damage. Clinical signs include vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, depression, coma, and death over a period of several hours to few days. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association back in 1998 looked at 60 cases of Sago Palm toxicosis. 95% of the cases developed liver and gastrointestinal tract problems and the mortality rate once clinical signs developed was 32.1%.

The best solution is prevention, but if your pet is suspected of ingesting any part of the Sago Palm, get it to your veterinarian as soon as possible. The damage can be minimized if vomiting can be induced and activated charcoal administered before signs appear. Once clinical signs appear, treatment is supportive; no specific antidote exists. Waiting can be fatal!

Steve McBride, DVM

Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine has established a new Ferret Health Advancement website. You can read about what MSU is accomplishing in the field of ferret health. They also have a number of articles devoted to specific disease problems with ferrets.

Steve McBride, DVM

The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) has published their updated 2009 Senior Care Guidelines for cats. The Senior Care Guidelines address a broad range of issues including medical, behavioral, and lifestyle considerations. The AAFP Guidelines cover cats aged 7 and older. The 22 page PDF is full of great information, but if you don't feel like wading through it yourself, we will cover what you need to know at your kitty's next visit.

Steve McBride, DVM