Paws and Prayers Rescue Blog

Daffodil

Spring is upon us in Northeast Ohio, and with it comes the prime time for gardening (FINALLY!).  When planting your vegetation—or even keeping houseplants or floral arrangements in your home—it can save your furry friend’s life if you know which ones can be harmful or even deadly.

We at Paws & Prayers have compiled a list of common toxic plants for pet parents to be aware of. While the list is not exhaustive, you can find a complete listing at the ASPCA poison control site.


Aloe Vera  

• Vomiting, diarrhea, depression, decreased appetite, tremors, change in urine color 

Azalea

Azalea/Rhododendron 

• GI upset, drooling, loss of appetite, diarrhea, colic, weakness and loss of coordination, stupor, leg paralysis, recumbency for 2 or more days
• Dogs and cats may become comatose and die if medical attention is not sought 
• Also toxic to farm animals such as horses, goats, and sheep

Begonia

• Oral irritation or burning of mouth, tongue or lips; excessive drooling; vomiting; difficulty swallowing

Daffodil

Hosta

• The bulbs are the most toxic part of the plant
• Vomiting, salivation, diarrhea 
• If large amounts are ingested, may cause convulsions, hypotension (low blood pressure), tremors, and arrhythmias

Hosta

• Vomiting, diarrhea, depression

Ivy 

• GI upset, abdominal pain, increased drooling

Tomato plant

• Excessive drooling, decreased appetite, severe GI upset, depression of the central nervous system, confusion, behavioral changes, weakness, dilated pupils, slow heart rate

Tulips

Tulips/Narcissus

• As with other bulbous plants, the bulb is the most toxic portion of the plant
• Severe GI upset/irritation, depression of the central nervous system, drooling, loss of appetite, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias

Several plants found in floral arrangements can also be hazardous to your pet’s health, causing symptoms such as GI upset, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. These include carnations, baby’s breath, chrysanthemum, and gladiola. And YES, although the ever-popular holiday poinsettias are a commonly known toxic plant, the symptoms of ingestion are not quite as severe as most people believe, and are mostly limited to vomiting and diarrhea.

Don’t be left unprepared in the event of any type of poisoning, whether it be hazardous chemicals, foods, or plants. Make sure you—and every member of your family—know how to reach the closest emergency veterinarian, and have the ASPCA’s Poison Control number (888-426-4435) prominently displayed in a common area, such as your refrigerator.

Being vigilant and knowing what symptoms to look for can help save your cat or dog’s life. It’s always better to be safe rather than sorry, and a consultation fee for the ASPCA Poison Control Center or your vet is worth it to make sure your pet is A-OK! 

Here are some helpful sources and resources to review: 

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/ 

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/?gclid=CJyj_qXnvbYCFc9AMgodSlAA0w

http://www.care2.com/greenliving/24-common-plants-poisonous-to-pets.html

http://www.animalhealthfoundation.net/news/item.html/n/20261gclid=CJ2yxYzqvbYCFY1aMgodZH8ADA


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Content By:  Jocelyn Alexander

Jocelyn Alexander is a rescue foster for dogs and cats, as well as a Certified Professional Pet Sitter (CPPS).  She has a 4-year-old black Labrador retriever named Dixie, who is a registered Pet Partners therapy dog and Canine Good Citizen; and Chloe, a 10-year-old tuxedo cat who rules the house with a velvet glove.


Images:  1, 2, 3