Top 10 Most Dangerous Garden Plants for Pets
As your pets spend more time outdoors it is important to know the challenges they may face. The top ten most dangerous garden plants for dogs and cats, based on information from the ASPCA, UC Davis, and the Pet Poison Helpline, include:
- Lilies (including Asiatic, Daylilies): Highly toxic to cats, causing kidney failure, and can cause stomach upset in dogs.
- Azaleas/Rhododendrons: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, heart rhythm problems, and seizures in pets.
- Sago Palms: Highly toxic, causing vomiting, liver failure, and potentially death in pets.
- Tulips: Can cause stomach upset, and in severe cases, heart issues.
- Hydrangeas: Contain cyanide, but usually only cause stomach upset.
- Peace Lilies: Contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, causing mouth pain and stomach upset.
- Devil’s Ivy/Pothos: Similar in toxicity to Peace Lilies, causing mouth irritation and stomach upset.
- Lantana: Rarely, can cause liver failure, usually causes stomach upset.
- Daffodils: Can cause severe stomach upset, and potentially low blood pressure or cardiac arrhythmias.
- Hostas: Typically cause stomach upset in pets.
Other notable mentions from the resources include Autumn Crocus, Cyclamen, Kalanchoe, Oleander, Dieffenbachia, Lily of the Valley, and Sago Palm, all varying in their effects from vomiting and diarrhea to severe organ damage or even death, depending on the species and amount ingested.
If your pet ingests any part of these plants, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately as early intervention can be critical. For a comprehensive list and more detailed information on the symptoms these plants can cause, it’s recommended to visit the websites of the ASPCA (ASPCA), UC Davis (UC Davis), and the Pet Poison Helpline (Pet Poison Helpline).
