Toxic Plants for Pets: What to Watch Out For
If you have a cat or dog, it’s important to know which plants in your home or garden can be harmful to them. Many common plants are toxic to pets, so keeping them out of reach is essential for their safety.
Toxic Plants to Avoid
According to the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center, here are some toxic plants commonly found in homes and gardens :
- Amaryllis
- Autumn crocus
- Castor plant
- Christmas cactus
- Chrysanthemum
- Cyclamen
- Daffodil
- English Ivy & Devil’s Ivy
- Holly
- Hydrangea
- Kalanchoe
- Lily (all types, including Asiatic, Daylily, Peace Lily, and Lily of the Valley)
- Marijuana (especially the seeds and leaves)
- Oleander
- Poinsettia
- Rhododendron & Philodendron
- Sago Palm
- Schefflera
- Tulip
- Yew
Safe Plants for Pets
If you’re looking for pet-safe plants, consider these options:
- Aster
- Calamagrostis
- Carnation
- Daisy
- Grass Fountain
- Orchid
- Pansy
- Rose
- Sunflower
What to Do If Your Pet Ingests a Toxic Plant
If you think your pet has eaten a poisonous plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. Signs of poisoning can include:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Seizures
- Weakness or lethargy
- Difficulty breathing
In severe cases, plant poisoning can be fatal, so it’s important to act quickly.
Where to Get Help
If your pet is showing symptoms of poisoning, take them to one of these emergency centers:
Prevention and Awareness
To protect your pet, familiarize yourself with both toxic and safe plants. If you're unsure whether a plant is harmful, you can visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (ASPCA) website or call their hotline at 1-888-426-4435 for guidance. By keeping harmful plants out of reach you can keep your furry friends safe and healthy.
