As the holidays approach let’s review pet safety with plants in this Tip from the Yard. Plants you have in your home may be safe for your pets or they may not be. If the pet is accustomed to them toxicity this may not be an issue but new holiday plants could be different story. Let’s check out some known toxic holiday plants and review a few of the more common year-round house plants.
Christmas Plants:
Holly: leaves and berries are toxic to cats and dogs. Common symptoms are blood in the mouth, excessive drooling, and digestive issues.
Christmas Cactus: are not toxic but can cause diarrhea in cats and dogs.
Poinsettias: this is the big misconception, or not. Some articles say it is mildly toxic some articles say it is not. The confusion is based on the plants family and known issues with other plants in the family. It would be safe to assume the sticky sap can cause diarrhea and vomiting cats and dogs. Check with your veterinarian to confirm.
Mistletoe: the berries primarily are very toxic. Common symptoms are vomiting diarrhea, difficulty breathing, low heart rate, and low blood pressure.
Anthuriums: are toxic to both cats and dogs. Any plant containing calcium oxalate crystals will cause a severe reaction when ingested by a pet. The crystals can cause severe mouth pain and irritation.
Year-round plants:
Peace Lilies: are toxic to cats, causing feline kidney failure. In dogs they can cause an upset stomach and possibly an intestinal blockage. The chemical is calcium oxalate.
Dracaena: aka corn plant, ti plant, and ribbon plant. Is toxic to cats and dogs. The chemical is saponin. If ingested it can cause vomiting, increased salivation, and appetite loss.
Shamrock Plants: also contain calcium oxalates. The fleshy root contains the highest concentration. Dogs that like to dig should be kept away.
Jade Plants: also cause vomiting in both cats and dogs.
Any of these plants and any plants that you are suspect of being toxic to pets should not be in close proximity to dog or cats.
Educator Note: If you suspect or know for a fact that your pet has ingested a potentially toxic plant, contact your veterinarian to seek medical advice.
Let’s end on a positive with a short list of safe plants:
Peperomia, Ponytail Palm, Lipstick Plant, Polka Dot Plant, Prayer Plant, and Swedish Ivy.
-M. Massey, Lorain County MGV
Resources:
Petscaping: Creating a Pet-Friendly Garden, Penn State University
Houseplants Poisonous to Cats and Dogs, University of Florida