Enter exact address (street num., block)
-
{{ pet.category[lang] }}
{{ item.name[lang] }}
Toxic Plants for Pets: What to Avoid
Time to read
Many plants found in our homes and gardens can be dangerous to dogs and cats. Some contain chemicals that can cause serious health problems if ingested or even inhaled. Knowing which plants are toxic is essential for ensuring the safety of your pets.
1. Lily (Lilium spp.)
Lilies are beautiful flowers but are highly toxic to cats. Even small amounts of any part of the plant, including flowers, stems, and leaves, can cause severe kidney damage. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and kidney failure.
2. Asian and North American Lilies (Hemerocallis spp.)
Asian lilies are also very dangerous for cats. Even ingesting a small part of the plant can lead to severe kidney damage and toxicity. Possible symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and anuria (lack of urination).
3. Azalea (Rhododendron spp.)
Azaleas are beautiful shrubs but are very toxic to both dogs and cats. They contain grayanotoxins that can cause poisoning, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, heart issues, and even coma. If you suspect your pet has ingested part of an azalea, contact a veterinarian immediately.
4. Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia spp.)
Dieffenbachia, also known as "dumb cane," is a popular houseplant but is dangerous for pets. This plant contains calcium oxalates, which can cause irritation to the mouth, tongue, and throat. Symptoms include pain in the mouth, swelling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
5. Caladium (Caladium spp.)
Caladiums also contain calcium oxalates that can cause irritation and pain in the mouth and throat if ingested. These plants are dangerous to both dogs and cats and can lead to nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
6. Tulip (Tulipa spp.)
Tulips, especially their bulbs, are toxic to both dogs and cats. They contain alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, and lack of coordination. In some cases, poisoning can be severe and require medical intervention.
7. Horse Chestnut (Aesculus spp.)
Horse chestnuts are beautiful, but they are toxic. They contain aesculin, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in animals. In larger amounts, these plants can lead to lethargy and severe neurological symptoms.
8. Primula (Primula spp.)
Primulas, often grown in gardens, are toxic to pets, especially cats. They contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. They may also cause skin reactions if your pet comes into contact with them.
9. Hydrangea (Hydrangea spp.)
Hydrangeas are beautiful flowers but contain cyanogenic glycosides that can lead to poisoning if ingested. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and depression. In severe cases, poisoning can be fatal.
10. Petunia (Petunia spp.)
Petunias are not as toxic, but if ingested, they can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in pets. While not life-threatening, these plants can cause discomfort and serious health issues for your pets.
11. Ivy (Hedera helix)
Ivy, often used for decorating walls or as an indoor plant, contains compounds that can cause stomach irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea in pets. In severe cases, ivy can cause breathing difficulties and neurological issues.
12. Sansevieria (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Sansevieria, also known as "snake plant," is a popular houseplant but is toxic to animals. If ingested, it can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and mouth pain. In some cases, ingesting larger amounts can lead to severe poisoning.
13. Narcissus (Narcissus spp.)
Narcissus flowers, including their bulbs, are toxic to both dogs and cats. They contain alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, and heart rhythm disturbances when ingested.
14. Tradescantia (Tradescantia spp.)
The common houseplant tradescantia contains substances that can irritate the mouth, tongue, and skin of animals. Symptoms of poisoning include mouth inflammation, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Conclusion
While plants can add beauty and freshness to our homes, it's important to be cautious with what we place in our homes if we have pets. Knowing which plants are toxic and taking preventive measures to keep animals away from them is crucial for their health and safety. If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact a veterinarian immediately.
