Bergamot Orange
Citrus aurantium · Rutaceae
How it looks
Bergamot Orange (Citrus aurantium) is an evergreen tree with glossy, large oval leaves and white star-shaped flowers. It bears small yellow, pear-shaped fruit, and the leaves and rind carry a very strong citrus scent. Height 10-16 ft (3-5 m).
Mild caution — stomach irritation
The bark, seeds, and all other parts of Bergamot Orange contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble of Bergamot Orange usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the bergapten and limonene in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression, photosensitivity
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Citrus aurantium
- Common name
- Bergamot Orange
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Toxic parts
- Bark, Seeds, All parts
- Compounds
- Bergapten, Limonene
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression, photosensitivity
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
