As pet owners, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential dangers lurking in our gardens and inside our homes. Many common plants can be toxic to cats and dogs, causing a range of symptoms from mild irritation to severe illness or even death. In anticipation of spring – even if the weather today is foggy and reminiscent of an arctic winter – here is a list of the top 10 toxic plants and flowers to avoid if you have pets, including both indoor and outdoor varieties.
Top 10 Plants to Avoid with Pets
- Lilies (Lilium spp.)
Extremely toxic to cats, lilies can cause severe kidney failure. Even small exposures can be fatal. All parts of the plant are dangerous, including the pollen. - Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta)
This popular ornamental plant contains cycasin, which can cause severe liver damage in pets. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, jaundice, and potentially liver failure. - Oleander (Nerium oleander)
All parts of this outdoor shrub contain cardiac glycosides that can cause severe digestive upset, abnormal heart function, and even death. - Castor Bean Plant (Ricinus communis)
The seeds contain ricin, an extremely toxic protein. Ingestion can cause severe abdominal pain, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea5. - Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
This common houseplant contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause intense oral irritation, difficulty swallowing, and potential airway obstruction. - Rhododendron/Azalea (Rhododendron spp.)
These popular garden shrubs contain grayanotoxins, which can interfere with nerve and muscle function. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, weakness, and potentially fatal cardiovascular effects. - Tulips and Hyacinths
The bulbs of these spring flowers are the most toxic part, causing severe gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, and potential cardiac abnormalities. - English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Both the leaves and berries contain hederagenin, which can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and hypersalivation. It can also cause skin irritation in pets. - Philodendron
This common houseplant contains calcium oxalate crystals, similar to Dieffenbachia. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, pain, drooling, and difficulty swallowing. - Daffodils (Narcissus spp.)
All parts of daffodils contain lycorine, which can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The bulbs are the most toxic part.
More Toxic & Non-Toxic Plants
It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and many other plants can be harmful to pets. Always research any new plants before bringing them into your home or garden.
When in doubt, check out the ASPCA’s more comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants.
Pet Poison Control for Ingestion of Toxic Plants
If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA 24/7 Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 immediately. The toxicologists on call at these organizations charge for their services but often represent the difference between life and death in ingestion situations. Make sure you have all the details of ingestion when you call – what they ingested, when, and how they are currently acting. They will tell you if you need to rush to the vet or if a wait and see approach is appropriate.
The Most Proactive Care for West Houston & Katy Pets
By being aware of these dangerous plants and keeping them out of reach, you can help ensure a safer environment for your furry companions. If ever we suspect your pet is in danger of ingesting a potentially dangerous plant, we will contact you or your emergency contact. One of our main focuses at Animal Admiration is to be proactive and preventing during pet care visits.
New clients, please contact us at info@animaladmiration.com or (281) 391-1015 to learn about our in-home pet care services. Our team of outstanding cat care providers offers quality care dog sitting, cat sitting, and dog walking in Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Energy Corridor, Memorial, West Houston, and Cypress.
Existing clients schedule your pet care visits here.
