Flowers are everywhere in our world, and their beauty can bring joy to both you and your pets. Despite their beauty and smell, pets have to be careful around specific flowers, because ingestion can cause severe consequences. If you ever have questions about the plants around your home, contact Pet Poison Helpline and your veterinarian. Below is a list of the top plants that are poisonous to pets.
Top Poisonous Plants to Pets
1. Azalea: Azaleas belong to the same family as rhododendrons. If pets eat any part of azaleas, they can have serious consequences. Just a small number of leaves can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling. Large ingestions may cause heart rate and rhythm issues, as well as neurologic signs. Without prompt veterinary care for large ingestions, your pet may develop significant symptoms that may be fatal.
2. Lilies: It is imperative to differentiate between somewhat dangerous and very dangerous types of lilies. As a best practice, assume all types of lilies are dangerous. Peruvian lilies are often mistaken for true lilies but only result in mild stomach upset. Peace and calla lilies contain insoluble oxalate crystals which can cause minor symptoms such as irritation of the mouth, tongue, pharynx, and esophagus, leading to minor drooling. True lilies, like tiger, day, Asiatic, Easter and roselilies, are highly toxic to cats. If any part of the plant is ingested, including just a few petals or leaves, it can result in severe kidney failure. If your cat consumes any part of a lily, contact your veterinarian immediately.
3. Daffodils: Daffodil bulbs, plants, or flowers are dangerous because of lycorine. It is an alkaloid with strong emetic properties that can trigger vomiting. General symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in very rare instances, possible cardiac arrhythmias or respiratory depression may develop if the bulb is ingested.
4. Sago Palm: Sago Palms can be cared for both indoors and outdoors in warmer climates. Despite its variety, this plant is very dangerous to pets. Consumption of the leaves and seeds can lead to vomiting, bloody stools, damage to the stomach lining, severe liver failure, and even death in some cases.
5. Tulips and Hyacinths: Both tulips and hyacinths contain potentially toxic substances. Bulb consumption can cause mouth and esophageal irritation, leading to drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Pets can experience supportive care from medical professionals.
Above is a short list of plants that are toxic to pets. Other poisonous plants include but do not stop at Autumn Crocus, Cyclamen, Kalanchoe, Oleander, Dieffenbachia and Lily of the Valley. If you’re unsure if a plant is poisonous to your pet or not, do not hesitate to call Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
