12 common poisonous plants for dogs and cats
Pets are naturally curious, often exploring their surroundings with their noses and mouths. While some of this curiosity can be harmless, certain plants can pose serious risks to your dog or cat. Many common plants contain toxic substances that can cause a range of symptoms, from mild irritation to severe, life-threatening conditions. Dr Rebecca Coote, Veterinary Manager at VetPartners in New Zealand, explains that “most plants toxic to pets require ingestion to cause harm – meaning your pet needs to eat the plant for it to be a problem. However, some plants can still be dangerous even without being ingested. For instance, lilies can be toxic to pets, particularly cats, when they come into contact with the plant and then lick the pollen off their fur.” Understanding which plants are dangerous and how to protect your pets is essential for keeping them safe. Here are some of the most common plants that are toxic to pets, along with pet-friendly alternatives.
Toxic plants for dogs and cats
1. Lilies
Every part of the lily plant is highly toxic, especially to cats. Even a small amount ingested can result in severe kidney damage and can be fatal if not treated quickly.
Pet-friendly option: Sunflowers
2. Sago Palm
Every part of the Sago Palm, especially the seeds, contains cycasin, a toxin that can cause liver failure and death.
Pet-friendly option: Kentia palm
3. Bulbs (such as Tulips)
While all parts of these plants can cause illness, the bulbs are the most toxic. Ingesting them can result in gastrointestinal upset, as well as heart and breathing problems.
Pet-friendly option: Orchids
4. Oleander
Oleander contains toxins that affect the heart. Even a small amount can be deadly to both dogs and cats if ingested.
Pet-friendly option: Lilly pillies
5. Aloe Vera
While it has healing properties for humans, aloe vera can be toxic to pets if ingested. The gel inside the plant is less toxic than the outer parts, however all parts can cause health issues.
Pet-friendly option: Spider plant
6. Rhododendrons
As well as Azaleas are popular flowering plants containing grayanotoxins, which can be dangerous. In severe cases, ingestion may result in coma or death.
Pet-friendly option: Magnolias
7. Dieffenbachia
Contains insoluble calcium oxalates that can cause intense oral pain, swelling, and irritation in pets. While not usually fatal, it can cause significant discomfort and difficulty eating.
Pet-friendly option: Cast iron plant
8. Ivy
Ivy can cause gastrointestinal upset when ingested by pets. The leaves are the most dangerous part, however the berries can also cause illness.
Pet-friendly option: Hoya silver pink vine
9. Chrysanthemums
Contain toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, and loss of coordination in dogs and cats if ingested. Even small amounts can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
Pet-friendly option: Snapdragons
10. Cyclamen
Contains saponins, which can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs and cats. Larger amounts may cause seizures and heart issues.
Pet-friendly option: African violet
11. Amaryllis
Contains lycorine, which can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain if ingested. In severe cases, pets may also experience tremors, decreased appetite, and lethargy.
Pet-friendly option: African daisy
12. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus oil can be harmful to pets if consumed. Ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, weakness, and seizures.
Pet-friendly option: Areca Palm
Signs of plant poisoning in pets
This list isn’t a comprehensive list of plants that are poisonous to pets. For a more extensive list, visit the ASPCA’s website, where you’ll find detailed lists of toxic and non-toxic plants for dogs, and cats.
If you suspect your pet has been poisoned by a plant, watch out for these common signs:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty swallowing
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Increased drinking and urinating
- Seizures or muscle twitching
- Swelling or irritation around the mouth
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly. Take them straight to your vet or emergency hospital or call the Australian Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 TOX PET (1300 869 738).
While plants can beautify our homes and gardens, they can also present hidden dangers to our pets. By being aware of the toxic plants around you and taking steps to protect your pets, you can prevent accidental poisonings and keep your furry friend safe and healthy.
Other hazards in the garden
In addition to poisonous plants, there are several other common garden and backyard items that can be harmful to pets.
Plant and lawn fertilizers
Fertiliser products contain additives that may be toxic for your pet. Because there are a variety of fertilisers with different combinations of ingredients, the symptoms of ingestion may differ. Fertilizers containing bone meal, blood meal, or iron can be fatal for pets if ingested. In general, symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive salivating, lethargy and abdominal pain. Ensure you keep your pet inside while you are working with fertiliser in the garden and that the garden area is secured after application.
Gardening tools
Leaving your tools out overnight, or even when you pop back inside for lunch, can post a risk to the safety of your pet. Gardening tools can be sharp and pronged making it easy for a pet to injure themselves. Even if tools are packed away, make sure they are put in a safe place that is locked and secure from your curious pet.
Rat and insect poison
Warmer weather brings the bugs out in force. Using poison to get rid of bugs or rodents poses a big threat to your pets. There are multiple chemicals in these types of poison that if ingested by your pet, can lead to serious or fatal reactions.
While some brands of poisons and insecticides claim to be pet friendly, it is best to cautious if you have any pets in the house. If you suspect your pet has ingested anything you believe may be a toxin please contact your vet immediately.
Fruit seeds and stones
While your fruit trees may begin to bear their seasonal fruit, it is important to remember that as fruit falls to the ground, your pets may have easy access to these fruits. The inedible parts of fruits, such as stems and pips can cause problems for your pet if they decide to investigate and eat them.
Some pips can damage the oesophagus and cause your pet pain. If the pip makes it beyond the stomach, depending on the size, it may cause an obstruction that could potentially lead to vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Fruits with hard stones can also cause painful tooth fracture if your pet bites into it. Fruits to be aware of include: apples, avocados, grapes, nectarines, apricots, cherries and peaches.
Always supervise your pets outdoors and keep hazardous items out of reach.
Reviewed by Dr Rachael Dickie, Veterinarian
Rachael is VetPartners Veterinary Manager for ACT and NSW and brings with her a wealth of experience from her veterinary work with both large and small animals in rural, regional and metro clinics. She has a passion for all things internal medicine, a keen interest in Australian wildlife, and an extra soft spot for Golden Retrievers.