17 Toxic Plants to Watch Out For

 

Did you know that many common household and garden plants can be highly toxic to pets? Even small amounts can cause serious health issues, especially in cats and dogs.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center provides vital information for pet safety:

High-Risk Plants

Extremely Toxic:

• Lilies – Even a tiny amount can lead to fatal kidney failure in cats and gastrointestinal distress in dogs

Neurotoxic & Cardiovascular Risks

• Marijuana – Causes vomiting, incoordination, seizures, and possibly coma
• Yew – Affects the central nervous system and heart; potentially deadly
• Oleander – Can disrupt heart function and be fatal if ingested

Severe Liver & Organ Damage

• Sago Palm – One or two seeds can cause vomiting, seizures, and liver failure
• Autumn Crocus – Leads to shock, multi-organ damage, and bone marrow suppression

Plants Affecting the Heart

• Kalanchoe – Contains compounds that disrupt heart rhythm
• Castor Bean – Highly toxic; can lead to seizures, tremors, and death
• Tulip/Narcissus Bulbs – Can cause central nervous system and cardiac symptoms

Causing Gastrointestinal Distress

• Cyclamen – Root ingestion causes vomiting and can be fatal
• Amaryllis – Causes vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors
• Chrysanthemum – Leads to gastrointestinal upset and coordination loss
• English Ivy – Results in vomiting, abdominal pain, and drooling

Causing Oral Irritation & Drooling

• Peace Lily – Irritates the mouth and throat; causes drooling and vomiting
• Schefflera – Contains calcium oxalate crystals that burn oral tissues
• Pothos – Can cause swelling of the mouth and GI tract irritation

Other Dangerous Plants

• Azalea/Rhododendron – Can lead to weakness, vomiting, and heart failure

If you suspect that your pet has ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or AMCMA immediately.