We understand that our beloved furry friends are naturally curious, and they might sometimes nibble on plants. However, it's crucial to be aware of the plants that can be harmful to our pets. Here is a list of some common plants that have been reported to cause systemic effects on animals. Please keep these plants out of reach to ensure the safety and well-being of your pets.
1. Lilies
Members of the Lilium spp. are highly toxic to cats. Even small ingestions can lead to severe kidney damage. Keep these plants away from your feline friends.
2. Cannabis
Ingestion of Cannabis sativa can cause depression of the central nervous system, vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, and even seizures and coma in companion animals.
3. Sago Palm
All parts of Cycas Revoluta are poisonous, with the seeds containing the highest toxin levels. Ingesting just one or two seeds can result in serious effects like vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and liver failure.
4. Tulip/Narcissus Bulbs
The bulbs of Tulipa/Narcissus spp. can cause gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, depression, convulsions, and cardiac abnormalities.
5. Azalea/Rhododendron
Members of the Rhododendron spp. contain grayantoxins, leading to vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness, and depression. Severe poisoning can result in coma and cardiovascular collapse.
6. Oleander
All parts of Nerium oleander contain cardiac glycosides, causing gastrointestinal irritation, abnormal heart function, hypothermia, and even death.
7. Castor Bean
Ricinus communis contains ricin, a highly toxic protein. Ingestion can lead to abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and even seizures, coma, and death.
8. Cyclamen
Cyclamen species contain cyclamine, leading to significant gastrointestinal irritation and intense vomiting. Fatalities have been reported in some cases.
9. Kalanchoe
This plant can cause gastrointestinal irritation and affect the heart, leading to cardiac rhythm and rate disturbances.
10. Yew
Taxus spp. contain taxine, causing trembling, incoordination, breathing difficulties, gastrointestinal irritation, and cardiac failure.
11. Amaryllis
Amaryllis species can result in vomiting, depression, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, anorexia, and tremors.
12. Autumn Crocus
Ingestion of Colchicum autumnale can cause oral irritation, bloody vomiting, diarrhea, shock, multi-organ damage, and bone marrow suppression.
13. Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum species may cause gastrointestinal upset, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and loss of coordination.
14. English Ivy
Hedera helix contains substances causing oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, abdominal pain, and hypersalivation.
15. Peace Lily
Spathiphyllum contains calcium oxalate crystals leading to oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and burning sensation in the mouth, lips, and tongue.
16. Pothos
Pothos (Scindapsus and Epipremnum) can cause mechanical irritation and swelling of the oral tissues and gastrointestinal tract if ingested.
17. Schefflera
Schefflera and Brassaia actinophylla contain calcium oxalate crystals causing oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and burning sensation in the mouth, lips, and tongue.
If you suspect your pet has ingested any of these plants or if you have concerns about their health, please contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately at 1-888-426-4435.
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