L’March 8 it wouldn’t be the same if there weren’t the mimosa: this splendid plant, with cheerful and very fragrant flowers, is so loved that it has become the symbol of women’s day since 1946. Here, on this occasion, our houses are filled with cheerful yellow balls, so beautiful that they even attract the attention of our pets.
The doubt arises spontaneously: could it be a poisonous plant? If the dog ate the mimosa Could it have any repercussions? Let’s find out together.
What are mimosas?
In Italy, when we talk about Mimosa in popular parlance, it always refers to theAcacia Dealbata. This wonderful ornamental plant grows well in temperate climates like ours. Very often it takes root spontaneously, illuminating spring landscapes with its enchanting flowers.
It is a plant which, compared to other legumes, it does not cause particular allergiesneither to animals nor to humans: only 1 in 10 is sensitive to its pollen.
So far here only positives for this tree plant: let’s find out its effects on our pets, in particular the danger that can arise if the dog eats a mimosa.
Is mimosa poisonous to dogs?
Dogs, especially puppies, are particularly curious and hyperactive.
If on Women’s Day you are lucky enough to adorn your home with these splendid floral tributes, Fido could show some interest, perhaps starting to nibble on the plant for fun. But what can happen if the dog ate the mimosa?
The common mimosa, therefore theAcacia Dealbata, does not appear to be toxic for our dog. However, it must be kept in mind that any substance, ingested beyond a certain limit, can still cause disturbances of various kinds, such as digestive disturbances: this applies both to us and to our pets.
Which mimosa is bad for dogs?
It may seem strange, but there is not just one “Mimosa”! The Mimosoidae they are actually a subfamily of the Fabaceaewhich includes numerous species, including the so-called Japanese mimosa. The scientific term is Albizia julibrissin. It is characterized by leaves similar to those we know, but the flowers appear pink and larger.
Contrary to the common mimosa, i seeds of this variety are toxic to dogs and for other animal species.
If ingested they can trigger neurological symptoms, characterized by:
- spasms;
- tremors;
- convulsions.
Is mimosa toxic to cats?
Although the mimosa is generally considered safe for dogs, some bodies such as the ENPA include it among the toxic plants for cats.
Felines, as we know, are more “picky” than dogs in the food sector, which leads them to be even more selective about the substances they ingest, such as precisely the mimosa.
The likelihood of a cat poisoning itself after ingesting mimosa is therefore quite low, but be careful to place it in a place that is difficult for the cat to reach, especially if it has…a nice temper!
The mimosa: not just a plant!
This flower, given the strong symbolism associated with it, has certainly inspired gestures of love; nevertheless it represented the struggle for the conquest of women’s rights. But for those with a sweet tooth, this name will certainly remind the famous Mimosa cake.
The meaning is completely distorted if Fido, instead of eating a little flower, ransacked the dessert tray, or even worse, if he ate a fake mimosa, very common in our homes on the occasion of March 8th.
What if the dog ate a mimosa cake?
Custard and chantilly cream to fill or decorate a soft liqueur-soaked sponge cake: a masterpiece! This cake is perfect in terms of taste, substance and aesthetics. But what if the dog ate one mimosa cake?
The Mimosa cake is mainly made up of:
- sugars;
- amidacei;
- alcohol.
None of these 3 elements is similar to the dog’s dietary metabolism, although Fido is particularly greedy for them.
If he inadvertently eats a piece and doesn’t show significant symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea), there’s nothing to worry about. In any case, you can contact the vet and follow his advice.
And the fake mimosas? Foreign body danger!
Like any self-respecting anniversary, marketing also plays its part. In this period it is easy to come across fake mimosa gadgets: these gifts are very suitable for the event, but watch out for Fido’s voracity!
One of the dog’s behavioral problems concerns obsessive-compulsive aspects that lead him to have a morbid relationship with play, especially when he notices new “toys” at home. However, the fake mimosa is not a toy at all: fabric, wire and plastic can be lethal if they fall into the “wrong jaws”. In this case, go to the vet immediately: foreign body syndrome represents a clinical emergency that can endanger the life of our beloved four-legged friend.
In short, the Mimosa is a safe plant for our dog, less so for the cat: in any case, have fun and brighten up the house with this fragrant flower!