Cats need fresh air and to move about outside every now and again. It’s great to be outside, but make sure you keep your yard and surrounding area clear of plants like poison ivy. Poison ivy can affect cats by spreading its itchy rash onto your cat’s stomach and leg areas. If your cat comes inside with a redness on these areas or anywhere, please call your vet. Poison ivy is a plant that grows in North America and is commonly found in wooded areas. It can grow as shrubbery, ground cover or as a climbing vine. The plant is identified by three almond shaped leaves and its hairy vine. It is often light to dark green in the summer or a bright red or yellowish orange in the fall. Cats that aren’t affected by poison ivy can still spread it to humans simply by rubbing their fur on a person’s arms or legs. Talk to your veterinary clinic Ontonagon MI to learn more.
