Devils Ivy (also seeEpipremnum aureum) . There are over 10,000 types of succulents ranging in size, color, and texture. Aloe vera is not only commonly kept indoors but is considered to have multiple health benefits for humans. This is a guide to dangerous plants but it should not be used as a substitute for calling the poison center if a person or an animal has eaten a plant. Many toxic plants are irritants: they cause localized inflammation of the skin, mouth, stomach, etc. Your cats breathing may be difficult, or he may breathe in rapid shallow gasps. You can, however, remove the most toxic plants from your garden and make a note of any in your neighbours gardens that are potentially dangerous. Elephants Ear (also seeAlocasia,
15 Human Foods That Are Poisonous & Toxic To Cats This will help the vet to find a treatment or antidote to the poison. Holly (also seeIlex) Philodendrons cause severe reactions in cats, and if a significant amount is consumed, the initial symptoms of difficulty swallowing and breathing will only worsen. The kalanchoeoriginated in tropical Madagascar, so its blooms are as colorful as your imagination. Ipomoea
Poisonous plants | International Cat Care Succulent Market is the ultimate succulent store and is ready to provide cactus and succulent delivery in the most convenient way possible. Philodendron is a large genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae. Philodendrons are common house plants and also a very common part of tropical landscaping in the southern US. Its needle-like crystals can be found on plant leaves, stems, and other plant parts. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Most poisoning occurs when cats eat something toxic, ingest poisoned prey, or groom contaminated fur. The leaves of philodendrons contain calcium oxalate crystals. Livestock that feed on spurge plants for an extended period of time may die. Nicole is the proud mom of 3 rescue fur babies, Baby, a Burmese cat; Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway; and Mac, a Lab/Mastiff.
Philodendron Toxicity in Dogs and Cats | FirstVet Identifying features: Bright yellow, star-shaped flowers with a trumpet-shaped tube protruding from the center. We offer instant, personalized quotes based on the size of your lawn, location, and requested service. Common Plants and Flowers That Are Poisonous to Cats. 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. The cat will most likely die if not treated. Use the search!
Beginner Gardening:Are Leucadendron toxic? - Dave's Garden Many more plants are poisonous to cats, and you should avoid them. Philodendron poisoning is when your cat shows symptoms like difficulty in swallowing, vomiting, and swelling in the mouth after eating philodendron. Severe cases can put your cat in a coma. If your cat loves nibbling and needs an outlet, you can purchase tummy-safe pet grass at most pet stores. Many toxic plants are irritants: they cause localized inflammation of the skin, mouth, stomach, etc. Allium Lily of the valley contains a cardiotoxin that is poisonous to your cat's heart function, causing abnormal heart rhythms ( arrhythmias) and even death. Remove all potentially hazardous household plants to prevent unnecessary exposure. Aquilegia Ornithogalum If you notice any of these symptoms, take your cat to the veterinarian right away. Offbeat Mamas beware: this plant is poisonous to children as well.
Are All Succulents Poisonous to Cats, or Just Some of Them? - Daily Paws Are Jade Plants Toxic To Cats? Spurge (also seeEuphorbia) For tips on how to turn your backyard into a feline fantasy, see our Landscaping Ideas for Cat Lovers. Poisonous characteristics: The leaves and flowers contain cyanogenic glycosides, which disturb the gastrointestinal system when ingested. Its best if you dont try to cure your cat yourself, as this can make things worse. If a cat consumes a large amount of philodendron, it may develop severe respiratory and digestive problems, which could be fatal. The plant is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 10 according to Michigan State University, though San Marcos Growers claims that plant is hardy to at least 25 degrees Fahrenheit, which includes USDA zone 9. Pokeweed (also seePhytolacca) Identifying features: Drooping lavender flowers that resemble clumps of grapes. Sumach(also seeRhus) Calcium oxalate, a toxic crystal-like substance released by philodendrons, is harmful to your cat. An effective antidote is available but must be used very soon after the cat has taken the tablet. A member of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), the Euphorbia genus consists of approximately 2,000 species of shrubs, vines, trees and herbaceous plants. Hyacinthus Shipping Advisory in effect for the next 7 days. There are a number of plants that can be quite toxic to cats. Primula obconica* 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. Nicotiana Plants listed as either non-toxic, or potentially toxic with mild GI upset as their symptoms are not expected to be life-threatening to your pets. This will help to neutralize the calcium oxalate. Cat tails euphorbia is considered a "coraliform" or "coraliformes" euphorbia type due to its skinny, coral-like stems, and may also be referred to as stick plant or stick cactus according to San Marcos Growers. Many cats enjoy a munch on the green leaves and flowers that we keep potted on the living room mantlepiece, and some of them can be highly toxic to our pets. Rhus or wax tree ( Toxicodendron succedaneum) It is the young inquisitive cat or kitten that is most at risk of eating harmful plants, particularly household ones. Nerium oleander Philodendron is the generic name, and philodendron is the English name. 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. Laburnum Experts Weigh In, Are Black Cats More Vocal? Identifying features: Fall-blooming flowers with feathery petals in bright orange, yellow, red, pink, lavender, or purple, depending on the species. To keep themsafe, keep any chemicals locked away, especially: Watch out for common household items that can choke or strangle your cat. The best diagnosis is made by identifying the plant. Since many plants are irritants, most symptoms seen will be the result of irritation or inflammation, such as redness, swelling or itchiness of the eyes, skin or mouth. Convulsions, renal failure, and coma are all possible side effects of Philodendron poisoning.
32 Common Indoor and Outdoor Plants Poisonous to Cats Take samples of vomit, stool, and the poison your cat ate to the vet with your cat. giardiniera99 Mountain View, CA Oct 01, 2008. These plants are frequently placed on coffee tables and shelves, where they gracefully spill out. Youve cleared your home and landscape of poisonous plants, so now what? 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. Also, be advised that the consumption of any plant material may cause vomiting and gastrointestinal upset for dogs and cats. Sunflowers. Lets learn everything you need to know about philodendron and cats in this article. If you suspect your cat has eaten philodendron, dont hesitate to contact your veterinarian. Theyre curious and innocent creatures who might nibble on your philodendron for no apparent reason. Veratrum
What Is A Leucadendron: Learn About Leucadendrons In The Garden Mid Summer.
Plants Toxic To Cats: Plants That Are Poisonous To Cats The name philodendron comes from the Greek words Philo-, which means love, affection, and dendron, which means tree.. Thats why, if you have a cat, you should avoid these toxic plants at all costs. Aleurites Philodendron is a popular indoor climbing plant with attractive, smooth, shiny leaves. The Horticultural Trade Association has a code of practice for its members, and most garden centres and nurseries label plants that are toxic or cause skin reactions. You will be asked about any potential for inappropriate grazing, as well as any dietary supplements or medicinal prescriptions that your catis currently taking. Thuja* Depending on the circumstances, your cat may also be prescribed appropriate pain relievers or antihistamines. Scilla You could also call your local emergency vet, too. Yes, philodendron is poisonous to cats as per ASPCA. Castor Oil Plant (also seeRicinus) Oleander, even in small amounts, can kill your cat. Angel Wings (also seeCaladium) Collect samples. Phytolacca Rhus* Is Hand Soap Toxic To Cats? If the airway becomes blocked, swelling of the tongue and throat has been known to cause breathing problems. But resist the urge to buy if your cat is nearby. Poisonous characteristics: The milky sap of poinsettia plants is mildly toxic and may cause irritation. None of the other Leucadendrons are listed as poisonous - does anybody have more information? Apples 7. If your cat eats any part of the philodendron, it will experience stomach irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Other plants in the list may come as a surprise Daffodils, for example. If you notice any of the aforementioned symptoms in your cat, or you catch them snacking on something toxic, take action immediately. Category B plants should be avoided. Dieffenbachia* ", Cornell University: "Common Cat Toxicities," "Poisons. Snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), How to Keep Cats Out of Your Yard and Garden. Umbrella Plant (also seeSchefflera) When not available, their attention may turn to less suitable household plants. Taxus Senecio If the non-climbing ones are small, you can hang them. Crocus(also seeColchicum) Then call the California Poison Control System at 1-800-222-1222 for more help. What else can Ido?Consider locating your plants away from your cats' primary play and resting areas. Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) Identifying features: Tall spikes of tubular, drooping flowers in varying shades of purple, pink, or white. Oxytropis Anemone Star of Bethlehem (also seeOrnithogalum) Yew. What are the causes of philodendron poisoning in cats? Ivy is another common houseplant that cats should not eat, although, unlike cannabis and lilies, it is, at least, only considered moderately toxic. Jade. Philodendrons are common houseplants with exotic leaves that are extremely popular among houseplant enthusiasts. Cat tails euphorbia's medium green stems are tipped with half-inch, lime green leaves in the summer that leave behind raised brown dots when they drop. A veterinarian should thoroughly evaluate and monitor any swelling in the airway. Alcohol 2. Astragalus 6. Buttercup (also seeRanunculus) Here, however, it is the bulb that causes harm if ingested. Some common plants that are toxic to cats include: Amaryllis (Amaryllis . Eating even a few leaves can cause serious. Otherwise, you can feed tuna water or a mild chicken broth. However, some of them are extremely dangerous and fast-acting. Read this article to know the relationship between cats and philodendrons. On this website I read that parts of Leucadendron Safari Sunset were poisonous when ingested. Ilex As a result, if you have cats in the house, you must exercise greater caution. Identifying features: Spiky, needle-like foliage; red berries. Lily of the Valley (also seeConvallariamajalis) Leucadendron 'Red Dwarf' has no toxic effects reported. Chocolate 5. Philodendrons are said to be mild to moderately toxic to cats, but they are just one house plant that could cause discomfort or worse for your feline friend. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Curiosity can kill the cat, but now you know which plants to pick and which preventive measures to take. Some examples of free options are PlantSnap and PlantNet. These inquisitive, acrobatic climbers can reach just about anything they set their minds to. Ivy (also seeHedera) Some may even block their intestines if they swallowthem. Outdoors the story is not so simple. For cats, the philodendron family, which includes Swiss cheese plant, heartleaf, and fiddle-leaf philodendron, has a mild to moderate toxicity level. Azalea Hemlock (also seeConium) 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Continue reading to learn about clinical symptoms and what to do if your pet has been exposed! Kalanchoe Succulents and cats can safely share the same household. The plant was described as Euphorbia alluaudii in 1903 by the French botanist Emmanuel Drake del Castillo (18551904). How Much Does a Lithium-Ion Battery Cost in 2023? Its natural for your cat to be interested in your houseplants, and unique foliage can pique their interest even more. Despite the fact that dogs and cats are primarily carnivores, they are also curious animals who occasionally nibble on plants. Take samples of vomit, stool, and the poison your cat ate to the vet with your cat. Identifying features: Leaves growing all the way around a central stem with flowers sprouting from the top; trumpet-shaped flowers with six petals and stamens protruding from the center. The stems are tipped in summer with many 1/2 inch long green . Amaryllis 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. Lilies can be highly toxic to cats. If you have a cat in the house, your philodendron must be kept away from it. When a cat is confined to a run or lives entirely indoors, hazardous plants should be removed from its environment. The juicer the leaf, the greater the temptation. Poisonous characteristics: The plant, especially the bulbs, contains the toxin lycorine, which induces vomiting and gastrointestinal upset. If you notice that your cat has nibbled on any part of the plant, you can estimate the amount by thoroughly inspecting the plant. In severe cases, ingestion can cause death. Some poisonous plant ingestions can be fatal for cats, particularly if treatment is delayed.
Helen Donnelly - Do you know if Leucadendrons are toxic to | Facebook Increased salivation, a burning sensation in the mouth, swelling of the tongue, stomatitis, dysphagia, inability to speak, and edema are all possible symptoms. Madagascar Periwinkle (also see Catharanthus) Woody garden plants are also unlikely to be eaten by your cat tender household plants pose the most risk.
Mistletoe (also seeViscum) Caladium) Rosary Pea (also seeAbrusprecatorius) Identifying features: Glossy, scallop-edged, dark green leaves; clusters of small rosette flowers in shades of yellow, orange, pink, red, or white. To keep the philodendron at bay, use floating pots, hangers, or floating shelves. Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain sharp insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which will pierce the tissue of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. and succulents colors, shapes, and textures tend to resemble their own household toys. 8 Potential Methods. Writer and Mommy of 3 furr babies: The presence of plant material in the vomitus will aid in the confirmation of the preliminary diagnosis. Paeonia You can easily keep climbing philodendron in hanging pots if you have them. Box (also seeBuxus) After gardening, never leave hedge clippings or uprooted plants near pets. If your cat ingests any of this plant, give them tuna water to get rid of the crystals and yogurt to ease the symptoms. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Anagallis You should avoid having any type of lily in your home, including peace and Easter lilies. Mild dermatitis has also been reported as a result of contact with the leaves, with symptoms including vesiculation and erythema. Late Spring/Early Summer. Eucalyptus. Mistletoe can also lead to death. 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. Epipremnum aureum Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain allergenic lactones or similar alkaloids, which cause irritation in the mouth and digestive tract in small amounts or more severe internal issues in large amounts. They can help you know what to do next. Buxus By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the WebMD, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, Pain relievers (acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen), Xylitol (found in sugarless gums, candies, toothpastes), De-icing salts (which pets may walk through, then lick from their pads), Dog flea and tick medication (pills, collars, spoot-on flea treatments,sprays, shampoos), Holiday decorations, including lights and tinsel. These liquids will flush the crystals from your cats mouth and help to alleviate the discomfort that they have caused. Your veterinarian will give your cat a physical exam and order blood tests as necessary to determine your cat's overall health.
These 12 Common Houseplants Are Toxic to Cats, According to Veterinarians All parts of all types of philodendrons are toxic to most animals, including dogs, cats, horses, birds and even people. Leucadendron 'Red Dwarf' has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK. Most cats are fastidious creatures and are careful about what they eat. Hydrangea Dicentra Despite the best treatment from veterinarians, it causes many cats to die. Almost all types of pets are poisoned by philodendrons. Soil pH requirements: 6.1 to 6.5 (mildly . Cherry Laurel (also seePrunuslaurocerasus) Cats will chew on plantsand because they love to climb and explore, it can be difficult to keep plants out of your curious cat's reach. The gastrointestinal tract is also irritated, in addition to the mouth. Identifying features: Blooms in early autumn; Light pinkish-purple bulbs with a white center and yellow stamens. 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. If a plant is poisonous to cats, assume that all parts of the plant are poisonous, even though some parts of the plant may have higher concentrations of the toxin than others. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Synonyms: [Euphorbia alluaudii, Tirucallia alluadii]. However, a small percentage of these plants have the potential to cause harm to ourselves and our cats. Identifying features: Large, heart-shaped green leaves with ridges and ruffled edges, Identifying features: Fast-growing climbing vine or ground cover with small, glossy green leaves with white veins and three points. It just takes a bit of time and know-how to cat-proof your house so your kitty stays healthy and safe. The stems are tipped in summer with many 1/2 inch long green leaves and are dotted with brown marks where the leaves were previously attached. Delphinium Poisoning in cats is therefore generally rare. We use cookies to improve our website to make sure you have a better browsing experience. Sanguinaria We must make certain that our pets, such as cats and dogs, do not eat philodendrons. Most succulents are truly pet friendly (which is great news since they're easy to grow, distinctive decoratives, and ever growing in popularity). But even free-roaming adult cats may accidentally ingest needles or seeds that have become entangled in their coat during grooming. "Eucalyptus is poisonous to cats," Dr. Bustamante told The Dodo. Ivy (also seeHedera) Euphorbia* It is more common for plants to cause skin irritation in gardeners than to poison them. Philodendrons arent good for cats. Supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, anti-nausea drugs, pain medicine for cats,and anti-inflammatory medication will be used as needed. Jasminum Caladium Umbellatum Backed by a total satisfaction guarantee and amazing customer support. Polygonatum . The plant's striking texture is as gorgeous as its color options, ranging from reds and coppers to blues and greens. Catharanthus
Things You Didn't Know Were Poisonous to Cats - Insider What are the symptoms of toxic poisoning in cats? Prunus armeniaca Every moment matters if you think your cat has been exposed to something toxic.
Poisonous characteristics: The leaves, stems, and bulbs of the plant contain phenanthridine alkaloids, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, drops in blood pressure, and respiratory issues. Horsehead Philodendron, Cordatum, Fiddle leaf, Panda plant, Split-leaf philodendron, Fruit salad plant, Red emerald, Red princess, and Saddle leaf are all common names for this plant. The calcium oxalate crystals found in all parts of the philodendron can be harmful to your cat. Philodendrons are poisonous to cats, so keep them away from the plant. Identifying features: Large green leaves shaped like spearheads, with greenish-white variegation. Please enter the shipping ZIP code so we can determine shipping options: This succulent'sfleshy, spiky stems are enticing, as are its well-known. Occasionally this is misdiagnosed as gingivitis. The prognosis is favorable, and the clinical signs usually fade away within 24 hours with no long-term consequences. All parts of plant are poisonous if ingested. 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). Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycoside toxins, poisons that affect the cardiac muscles and can lead to death. Antifreeze often contains ethylene glycol . A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. Any plant, poisonous or not, can upset your cats stomach if they eat too much of it. One such plant that is toxic to cats is philodendron. 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. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, swelling of the upper airway can make breathing difficult, but this is uncommon. Identifying features: Glossy, dark green succulent leaves with an oblong shape. Pets who consume large amounts of these plants risk liver and kidney damage, so close monitoring of these organs is necessary if large amounts of sap are consumed. Digitalis
Weakness. Arisaema Many are grown as indoor and ornamental plants. The pain caused by the crystals in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract is frequently relieved within 12 to 24 hours of ingestion. Other details: Unknown - Tell us. Watch for symptoms. It could be the luck of the Irish.
Is Eucalyptus Safe For Cats? Here's What A Vet Says - The Dodo Yes, philodendron is poisonous to cats as per ASPCA. Rhamnus(includingR frangula) In cats, these plants may cause blistering or itching of the mouth and gums. These are indicated in the list below. Are Blue Star Junipers Poisonous to Dogs. Aloe. 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. If ingested in large amounts, it can cause cardiac issues. Its likeness to another Madagascar plant, Alluaudia dumosa in the Didiereaceae, gave this plant the name of Euphorbia alluaudii Drake and though this name is listed as the current name on The Plant List (collaboration between the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew and the Missouri Botanic Garden) most references still use the name Euphorbia leucodendron Drake for this plant. Identifying features: Shrubs with round clusters of small flowers in blue, pink, purple, or white. Ivy also grows outdoors in a lot of gardens and on the walls of buildings, so if you see these symptoms, your cat may have ingested this plant outside the house. If you see your cat eat something that you suspect to be poisonous, do not attempt to make the cat vomit. Some antacids may also help her stomach, but she may be dehydrated if she continues to vomit or develops diarrhea. Poppy (also seePapaver) Citrus Fruit Frequently Asked Questions Can I Feed My Cat a Raw Diet? In the spring and summer, the succulent flowers with greenish-yellow flower structures called cyathia and red, heart-shaped fruits. Due to the initial pain and discomfort in the mouth, large doses of plants containing calcium oxalate crystals are uncommon. Convallaria majalis
22 Plants That Are Poisonous for Cats - Reader's Digest The kalanchoeoriginated in tropical Madagascar, so its blooms are as colorful as your imagination. According to the ASPCA, ingesting it. Many plants that are poisonous when eaten may also have the potential to cause skin irritation on contact with their leaves or sap. Cytisus It has narrow pale green cylindrical and jointed stems that rise erectly and then arch outwards to form a mass as wide as tall. Dictamnus Cats can be poisoned in several different ways.
Are Philodendron Toxic To Cats? How To Treat Philodendron Poisoning In Nightshade, Woody (also see Solanum) Tetradymia Avocado 3. 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. Several days may pass between the ingestion of the undesirable material and the effects. Lilium Baneberry (also seeActaea) Poisonous characteristics: All parts of the plant contain cardiac glycoside toxins, poisons that affect the cardiac muscles and can lead to death. Keep in mind that even non-poisonous flowers for cats can cause some gastric upset. Curiosity typically rules when it comes to cats, so they probably will explore your plants time and again. Michelle Wishhart is a writer based in Portland, Ore. She has been writing professionally since 2005, starting with her position as a staff arts writer for City on a Hill Press, an alternative weekly newspaper in Santa Cruz, Calif. An avid gardener, Wishhart worked as a Wholesale Nursery Grower at Encinal Nursery for two years. Are Ferns Toxic to Cats? Everything You Need to Know, Are Black Cats Smarter Than Other Cats? And fortunately, it tends toburst into inbloom in early spring when needed most. Philodendrons are one of many house plants that are toxic to cats. Didn't find what you need? Peony (also seePaeonia) Five other popular house plants that you should prevent your cat from eating include: It is quite well known that lilies are potentially dangerous for cats. Symptoms may include vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea according to North Carolina State University. Depression. Rinsing the mouth with milk or water is a veterinary treatment for insoluble calcium oxalate-containing plants like the philodendron. Papaver Cats that are lethargic and off their food for a day or more may also have ingested something unsuitable and professional help should be sought. Hypoestes phyllostachya Tomato (also seeLycopersicon)
Euphorbia leucodendron at San Marcos Growers Please consider making a contribution, big or small, to keep our content free, accurate and relevant.
10 plants that are toxic to cats | Real Homes Signs to watch for include: Educate. And always remember: It's best to buy only thosesucculents that are deemed pet-safe. Poisonous characteristics: Daffodil bulbs contain lycorine, which triggers vomiting, and sharp crystals that cause severe irritation.