8 Common plants that will make your pet sick
Published on Wed Jun 6 2018 in Lifestyle
We pet owners love our furry friends, and would do just about anything to keep them healthy and happy. You may be aware of certain foods, like chocolate or sultanas, that dogs and cats should never eat. But did you know that some common house plants, flowers and herbs can also make pets seriously sick?
Here are eight common plants you may want to keep away from your cat or dog.
House plants
1. Aloe Vera
This common house plant is useful for treating skin conditions in humans, including burns, abrasions or bug bites. However, it can make curious cats and dogs sick. Aloe plants contain compounds that act as laxatives when eaten, and could cause vomiting or diarrhoea in pets.
2. Sansevieria
Commonly called Mother-in-law’s Tongue, this plant is great for naturally purifying air. But, you may want to place it well out of reach of your pets. When eaten, it can also cause gastrointestinal distress, as well as excessive drooling.
3. Rubber tree plant
These indoor plants are popular because they can survive in low light and need infrequent watering. Some varieties are safe if ingested by pets, but others can be poisonous. These include Japanese rubber plant, Ficus elastic and Indian rubber tree.
In the garden
4. Daffodil
Pretty to look at, but not good for dogs and cats! Eating a small amount of daffodils can cause pets to drool, vomit or have diarrhoea. Larger amounts may cause convulsions, low blood pressure or tremors. Bulbs are the most poisonous part of the plant, so be extra mindful when planting or repotting.
5. Chrysanthemum
These flowers contain compounds that are used in pesticides, as well as in flea and tick medications. While small quantities are safe, eating large amounts can be poisonous to cats, dogs and even horses. Symptoms may include excessive drooling, gastro distress, rashes or a lack of coordination.
6. Hydrangea
The leaves and flowers of this shrub contain a compound that can create the poison cyanide. Pets are unlikely to eat hydrangeas and would need to ingest a lot of the plant to become seriously ill or die. However, you may still want to look out for signs like lethargy, vomiting and diarrhoea if your dog or cat does eat it.
In the kitchen
7. Tomato plants
Ripened tomato fruit is generally OK for dogs or cats to eat, but the green parts of the plant may cause illness. Keep pets away from plants in the garden or the vines and leaves attached to vine-ripened tomatoes purchased from the grocery. Pets would need to eat a lot of the plant to cause severe poisoning, but symptoms may include lack of appetite, lethargy, dilated pupils or a slow heart rate.
8. Chives, onion, garlic & leeks
These pungent herbs and plants—all part of the Allium family—may be edible for humans, but can be toxic to cats and dogs! They damage pets’ red blood cells, resulting in weakness, a high heart rate and blood in their urine.
Healthy pet, happy owners!
If your dog or cat does eat any of the plants listed above, it may be wise to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. They can examine your pet and provide any necessary medical treatment. Whilst you may not be able to remove every dangerous plant from your home and garden, you can at least be on the lookout for those that may leave your pets feeling ill.
Thinking about adding a new dog or cat to the family? Know the true cost of pet ownership before adopting or buying.
About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
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