We all know that plants can bring beauty and serenity to our indoor spaces. In recent years, indoor plants have experienced a resurgence in popularity, especially during the socially distanced era of 2020. However, as pet owners, we need to be cautious about the potential risks that certain plants pose to our furry friends. Many popular plants can be toxic to pets, and it’s crucial to educate ourselves about these dangers to ensure the safety and well-being of our beloved companions.
Cats and Lilies: A Deadly Combination
Cats are naturally curious creatures and often can’t resist exploring new additions to their environment, including plants and flowers. However, some plants, such as those in the Lilium family, can be highly toxic to cats. Oriental lilies, which are commonly seen in flower arrangements, are particularly dangerous. Not only is ingesting these plants toxic, but even coming into contact with their pollen can lead to rapid renal failure in cats. Other lilies, such as Day lilies, Calla lilies, and Peace lilies, also pose a significant risk to our feline companions.
Dogs and the Sago Palm
Outdoor landscaping and gardens often feature the Sago palm or Cycad, a plant with a prehistoric appearance. While it may be aesthetically pleasing, every part of this plant is highly toxic to dogs. Ingesting any part of the Sago palm, including leaves, roots, and flowers/fruit, can result in acute liver failure. If you have a dog that enjoys chewing on plants in the garden, it’s essential to ensure they are kept away from this potentially deadly plant.
Indoor Plants to Avoid
Numerous popular indoor plants, some of which are also found in outdoor gardens, can be toxic to pets. A family of plants known as ‘Araceae’ contains insoluble calcium oxalate in their leaves, which can cause oral pain, swelling, drooling, trouble swallowing, and vomiting if ingested. Some examples of plants from this family include Fiddle leaf figs, Rubber figs, Dumbcanes, Fruit salad plants, and Devils Ivy. When purchasing indoor plants, it is crucial to thoroughly research their potential effects on our furry, feathered, or scaly friends. Various resources, such as the ASPCA website, provide extensive lists of plants and their toxicity classification to animals.
Pet-Friendly Indoor Plants
If you’re an avid plant lover and a pet owner, you might be wondering which plants are safe to add to your indoor jungle. While it’s important to keep in mind that most plants can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large amounts, there are several plants that are relatively safe for dogs and cats. Some examples include Spider plants, Aluminium plants, Chinese money plants, Prayer plants, Zebra haworthias, Boston ferns, and Maidenhair ferns.
Aside from these options, you can also create pet-friendly plant pots using “cat grass” and other safe herbs like catnip that your pets can enjoy without any worries. These plants can be easily found in the herb section of your local garden center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all cats and dogs affected by toxic plants in the same way?
A: The severity of the adverse reactions caused by toxic plants can vary between different species and breeds. It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pet’s safety.
Q: What should I do if I suspect my pet has ingested a toxic plant?
A: If you suspect that your pet has consumed a toxic plant or come into contact with toxic pollen, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Time is of the essence when dealing with potential poisoning.
Q: How can I ensure the safety of my pets around plants?
A: Firstly, research the plants you have or plan to bring into your home to determine if they are toxic to pets. Keep toxic plants out of your pets’ reach or consider pet-friendly alternatives. Additionally, ensure that your pets are supervised when they have access to plants.
Conclusion
As responsible pet owners, we must prioritize the safety and well-being of our furry companions. While indoor plants can bring joy and beauty to our homes, it’s essential to be aware of the potential dangers they may pose to our pets. By educating ourselves about toxic plants and making informed choices, we can create a pet-friendly environment that both our pets and plants can thrive in. Remember to always seek veterinary advice if you have any concerns regarding plant toxicity and your pets. Happy gardening and happy pet parenting!
Written by Dr. Michelle Lloyd, our cat-loving, plant-obsessed vet. For more cat and doggy spam with a hint of plants, you can follow her on Instagram @michelle_the_vet.