What pet owners need to know about toxic plants
If you're a pet owner, you know that your house is more than just your home—it is also your pet's playground. Whether you have a dog who loves romping around the garden, or a cat who loves snacking on your houseplants, it is important to be mindful of the hidden dangers lurking in some common household plants.
Many plants that bring life and colour to your home and garden can be toxic to our pet pals, and injure them in mild to serious degrees. In this article, we will cover some of the most common plants harmful to pets, how to recognize signs of poisoning, and how to create a safe haven for your furry family.
Why Are Some Plants Toxic to Pets?
Plants have inherent natural chemical defences, to keep themselves alive from insects and animals. Unfortunately, these chemicals can be harmful (and sometimes fatal) to our pets when ingested. The concentration (or toxicity level) of harmful chemicals varies from plant to plant and some plants can create serious health problems when just a small amount is consumed.
Toxic reactions can include:
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Drooling
- Lethargy
- Struggled breathing
- Organ failure
- Death (in serious cases)
It can be a matter of life and death to be able to recognize the signs of a poisoned animal, which is why it can be valuable to know which plants to avoid.
Common Toxic Plants for Cats and Dogs
1. Lilies - Several species of lilies are highly toxic to cats, and ingestion of even small amounts (even the water from the vase with lilies in it) can result in acute kidney failure. While lilies are not as dangerous for dogs, they can still create upset tummies for them.
Common toxic lilies:
- Easter Lily
- Tiger Lily
- Daylily
- Asiatic Lily
Signs of poisoning can include: vomiting, lethargy, decreased appetite, increased urination followed by decreased urination.
2. Sago Palm - Although sago palms are recognized as popular indoor and outdoor plants, this plant is highly toxic to both cats and dogs, and all parts of the plant are poisonous, but the seeds (nuts) are especially poisonous.
Signs of poisoning can include: vomiting, diarrhoea, seizure, liver failure and potentially death if not cared for.
3. Aloe Vera - Aloe Vera can be medicinally beneficial for humans; however this plant can cause significant digestive upset for our pets.
Signs of poisoning can include: vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, tremors.
4. Azaleas and Rhododendrons - These beautiful flowering shrubs can cause serious illness if your pet nibbles the leaves or flowers.
Signs of toxicity: Drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea, weakness, irregular heart rate, and possible coma.
5. Oleander - Oleander is commonly found in warm climates and home gardens, but all parts of this plant are toxic to cats, dogs, and even people.
Signs of toxicity: Vomiting, slow heart rate, tremors, and possibly fatal heart-related issues.
6. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) - This plant is very common in homes and offices. If chewed, it can cause immediate irritation.
Signs of toxicity: Oral pain, drooling, vomiting, trouble swallowing, and pawing at the mouth.
7. Tulips and Daffodils - The bulbs of these plants are the most dangerous portion, but any part of the plant can be toxic if ingested.
Signs of toxicity: Drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in the worst case, heart problems and respiratory distress.
8. Autumn Crocus - This plant can cause extreme and potentially life-threatening reactions to pets, particularly if the bulb is ingested.
Signs of toxicity: Severe vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, and difficulty breathing, and organ failure.
9. English Ivy - While a popular plant for decoration, English ivy can be harmful to pets if chewed.
Signs of toxicity: Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, and drooling.
10. Pothos (Devil's Ivy) - This popular houseplant is famous for being low maintenance, and it does contain some nasty crystals that can irritate the mouth and gastric tract.
Signs of toxicity: Oral pain, drooling, vomiting, and trouble swallowing.
What If Your Pet Eats a Toxic Plant?
If you suspect your cat or dog has eaten a poisonous plant, please take action quickly:
- Remove any plant material from its mouth.
- Call your veterinarian right away! You can also call the Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) for emergency help.
- Provide information. Try to identify the eaten plant, how much your pet may have eaten, and what symptoms the pet is exhibiting.
- Follow your veterinarian's instructions. Early treatment can eliminate many life-threatening complications.
- Never try to induce vomiting unless your veterinarian recommends it directly.
How to Keep Your Pets Safe
Preventing plant poisoning is simple with the following steps:
- Learn which plants are toxic. There are many trusted resources that offer lists of toxic and non-toxic plants, like the ASPCA.
- Keep any dangerous plants out of reach. Try to eliminate the plants altogether from your home and garden.
- Supervise your pet in the yard. Especially if it likes to chew on your prized plants.
- Provide safe alternatives. If your pet likes to chew, provide pet-safe grass or herbs or allow them to chew on catnip or cat grass.
- Teach family members the difference. Make sure everyone in your household knows what plants are safe and which are not.
Pet Safe Plant Alternatives
Want some green in your space while keeping your pet safe? Try these options:
- Spider Plant
- Areca Palm
- Boston Fern
- Calathea
- Bamboo
- Prayer Plant
These non-toxic plants still add some life and beauty to your space while keeping your furry friends safe.
Conclusion
Our homes are where we should feel most safe for ourselves and our pets. Some plants can offer visual and quiet beauty to the space we occupy, but, some of these plants could be serious health risks for cats and dogs. By becoming aware of what plants are toxic, recognizing the signs of poisoning, and taking preventative steps, you can create a safe, pet-friendly space.
If you are in doubt about a plant, it is better to be safe than sorry, and ask your vet. A few extra minutes of research could save your pet's life.