Known As: (Cultivated) Larkspur, Dwarf Larkspur, Staggerweed,
Poison Weed
Latin Name: Delphinium ajacis, Delphinium tricorne
Description: Part of the buttercup family. Ranges in height
from 6 inches to 4 feet. Has alternate, deeply-lobed leaves and spikes
of spurred white, blue or purple flowers. Roots grow in tuberous
clusters.
Poisonous Parts: All parts, especially yong leaves and
seeds. Moderate toxicity. Toxicity varies aand is strongest in early
growth and when plant goes to seed. Toxin is a mixture of alkaloids
including ajacine and delphinine that block communications between the
nerves and muscles.
Symptoms: Vomiting, abdominal pain, cramps, and diarrhea. Nervousness,
incoordination, staggering, salivating, bloating, abnormal heart beat,
breathing difficulty, paralysis, convulsions, death. Symptoms appear within
a few hours of ingestion.
Treatment: Unless your cat is unconscious or having convulsions,
induce vomiting and follow procedures to delay
absorption and speed elimination. Get prompt veterinary assistance.
There is no antidote but veterinarian may evacuate the stomach. Affected
animals should not be handled more than necessary since stress worsens
the signs.