Houseplants can add a touch of nature to your home, but some can be dangerous for your furry friends. Cats and dogs are naturally curious creatures, and they may be tempted to nibble on leaves or flowers. Some houseplants contain toxins that can be harmful or even fatal to pets.
17 Poisonous Common Houseplants for Pets
1. Common Houseplants: Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, often praised for its medicinal properties, can be harmful to pets. While the gel inside the leaves is often used topically for skin ailments, ingestion of the plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Keep your pet away from the plant and avoid using aloe vera topically on pets without consulting a veterinarian.
2. Common Houseplants: Snake Plant
The snake plant, a popular houseplant known for its durability, can be toxic to pets. While it’s not as dangerous as some other plants, ingestion of snake plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
3. Common Houseplants: Sago Palm
The sago palm, a popular choice for its exotic appearance, harbors a deadly secret. Every part of the sago palm is toxic, from its leaves to its trunk and seeds. The primary danger lies in its cycasin content, a toxin that can cause severe liver damage. Even a small amount of ingestion can lead to liver failure and, ultimately, death. Symptoms of sago palm poisoning in pets often include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
4. Common Houseplants: Castor Bean Plant
The castor bean plant, known for its ornamental foliage, contains a potent toxin called ricin. This substance is so toxic that even a small amount can be fatal. Symptoms of castor bean plant poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and neurological symptoms. It’s important to note that the toxin is primarily found in the seeds, but all parts of the plant should be considered dangerous.
5. Common Houseplants: Oleander
Oleander, a popular flowering shrub, is often used as a hedge or ornamental plant. However, its beauty hides a deadly secret. All parts of the oleander plant are toxic, including the leaves, flowers, and stems. The toxins in oleander can cause heart problems, leading to irregular heartbeat and even death. Symptoms of oleander poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and tremors.
6. Common Houseplants: Peace Lily
Peace lilies are popular houseplants because they are easy to care for and add a touch of elegance to any room. However, they are toxic to both cats and dogs. Ingestion of any part of the peace lily plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and oral irritation.
7. Common Houseplants: Lilies
While lilies are a popular choice for bouquets and arrangements, they pose a significant threat to cats. All parts of the lily plant are toxic to cats, including the leaves, flowers, and pollen. Even a small amount of exposure can cause severe kidney failure. Symptoms of lily poisoning in cats often include vomiting, lethargy, and frequent urination.
8. Common Houseplants: Pothos
Pothos, a common vining plant, is another toxic plant for pets. Ingestion of pothos can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and oral irritation.
9. Hydrangea
Hydrangea, known for its vibrant blooms, can be a toxic addition to your home if you have pets. All parts of the hydrangea plant are poisonous, including the flowers, leaves, and stems. Ingestion of hydrangea can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If you suspect your pet has eaten any part of a hydrangea, contact your veterinarian.
10. Amaryllis
Amaryllis, a popular holiday plant, can be harmful to pets. All parts of the amaryllis plant are toxic, including the bulbs, leaves, and flowers. Ingestion of amaryllis can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems.
11. Cast Iron Plant
Cast iron plants, known for their durability, can be harmful to pets. While they’re not as dangerous as some other plants, ingestion of cast iron plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
12. Philodendron
Philodendrons, a popular genus of houseplants, can be toxic to pets. All parts of the philodendron plant are poisonous, including the leaves, stems, and roots. Ingestion of philodendron can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and oral irritation.
13. Poinsettia
Poinsettias, a popular holiday plant, can be harmful to pets. While the sap is the most toxic part, all parts of the poinsettia plant can be harmful. Ingestion of poinsettia can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and oral irritation.
14. Jade Plant
Jade plants, often associated with good luck, can be harmful to pets. All parts of the jade plant are toxic, including the leaves, stems, and roots. Ingestion of jade plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems.
15. Cyclamen
Cyclamen, a beautiful flowering plant, can be toxic to pets. All parts of the cyclamen plant are poisonous, including the tubers, leaves, and flowers. Ingestion of cyclamen can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems.
16. Ivy
Ivy, a common vining plant, can be harmful to pets. All parts of the ivy plant are poisonous, including the leaves, stems, and berries. Ingestion of ivy can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and oral irritation.
17. Tomato Plant
Tomato plants, while edible for humans, can be harmful to pets. The leaves, stems, and unripe fruits of tomato plants are poisonous. Ingestion of tomato plant can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Signs of Poisoning
If you suspect that your pet has eaten a poisonous plant, seek veterinary help immediately. Signs of poisoning can vary depending on the plant and the amount ingested, but may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Excessive thirst
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Coma
What to Do If Your Pet Ingests a Toxic Plant
If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic plant, immediate veterinary attention is crucial. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Early intervention significantly improves the chances of recovery.
Here are some steps to take:
- Identify the plant: If possible, take a photo of the plant or bring a sample to the vet. This will help them determine the appropriate treatment.
- Contact your veterinarian: Provide them with as much information as possible about the plant and your pet’s symptoms.
- Follow your vet’s instructions: They may recommend inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, or providing other treatments.
- Monitor your pet closely: Watch for signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or difficulty breathing.
How to Prevent Your Pet from Ingesting Toxic Plants
Prevention is key when it comes to toxic plant ingestion. Here are some effective strategies:
Keep toxic plants out of reach
Place toxic plants in areas that your pet cannot access, such as high shelves or enclosed rooms.
Replace toxic plants
Consider replacing toxic plants with pet-safe alternatives, such as spider plants, Boston ferns, or African violets.
Teach your pet not to eat plants
Use positive reinforcement training to discourage your pet from nibbling on plants. Reward them for avoiding plants and provide them with plenty of chew toys.
Supervise your pet closely
Keep a watchful eye on your pet, especially when they are indoors. This will allow you to intervene if they start to show interest in a toxic plant.
By being aware of the common houseplants that are toxic to cats and dogs, you can take steps to protect your furry friends. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health or safety, do not hesitate to contact a veterinarian.
Pets Are Inn — Safe Boarding for Your Pets
If you need to board your pets while you’re away, contact Pets Are Inn at 972-424-8400. Our experienced staff and pet-friendly facilities are the perfect place to leave your pets. There are no toxic plants or substances within reach. With us, your furbabies are in good hands.