Toxic plants for our dogs and cats

Naturally curious, our dogs and cats will spend a lot of time exploring… but not everything they discover is harmless. You might love decking out your home with magnificent displays of flowers and plants. But does this greenery pose a threat to your furry friends? Read on for a list of shrubberies that are more toxic than Britney Spears’ discography…

Do dogs and cats instinctively know what plants to avoid?

Animals in the wild have a mix of instinct, experience and training that stops them from eating potentially dangerous things. They either learn this through experience, from their parents, or can usually tell by the colour, smell or taste – toxic plants tend to taste extremely bitter for animals.

Domesticated pets share some of the same instincts and training, but as you can imagine, they’re not as clued up as they could be. Cats are usually more sensible when it comes to eating strange things – although that doesn’t stop them from having the occasional nibble. Dogs, on the other paw, will eat almost anything, including our furniture! If your dog does ingest anything, our top tips for first aid poisoning in dogs will come in handy.

What indoor plants are dangerous for cats and dogs?

When beautifying your home with a range of indoor foliage, it's important to know what could be harmful to your cat or dog. Here's a couple of quick tips before we give you our poisonous plants rundown:

• Always be careful when cutting flowers. Make sure you pick up any trimmings before your pet gets their teeth on them.
• Discover which outdoor plants can be dangerous for your pet if you're bringing flowers from the outside in.
• Remember, this list isn't comprehensive. If your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t, or if you’re simply concerned, be sure to contact your vet straight away!

Aloe Vera

Typically kept as a houseplant year-round, Aloe Vera’s not completely poisonous for your pet. But it can cause diarrhoea if eaten in large amounts.

Azaleas/Rhododendrons

All members of the Rhododendron species contain grayanotoxins. This causes vomiting, diarrhoea and general weakness in your pet. In the absolute worst-case scenario, severe azalea poisoning can be deadly.

Chrysanthemums

If ingested, these popular summer flowers can cause tummy upsets – like vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Conkers and acorns

Commonly kept indoors to deter spiders, these are toxic to dogs – and they’re dangerous for cats as well. It’s rare for a dog or cat to bite these, but if they do it can cause stomach issues like intestinal blockages.

Daffodils

These can be deadly for smaller animals. Even just drinking the water in which your daffodils have stood can be harmful.

Geraniums

Despite being a lovely addition to your windowsill, every part of the Geranium is toxic to both dogs and cats when ingested.

Hyacinths

The bulbs of this flower are poisonous to cats and dogs.

Hydrangeas

The flowers of this plant are extremely toxic when ingested by cats, dogs and even humans. If eaten, it breaks down in the stomach to produce cyanide.

Irises

All parts of the Iris are toxic, but especially the bulb as it contains a larger amount of toxic chemicals.

Ivy

If consumed, Ivy can cause abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Lilies

Lilies are considered to be the most toxic plants for cats. Tiny amounts can cause extreme kidney damage. And all parts of the flower – including leaves, stems, petals and even pollen – are harmful. Even just brushing against this flower can be harmful for your kitty. Although not as dangerous, they’re still poisonous for dogs.

Lily of the valley

Often used in bouquets of flowers, this plant is very poisonous to both dogs and cats. It can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures and fainting.

Rhubarb

The leaves of this delicious plant are poisonous to dogs and cats, whether cooked or raw. Although not usually kept as an indoor plant, it's important to be mindful if you're bringing Rhubarb into your kitchen.

Tulips

The bulbs of Tulips contain toxins that cause extreme digestive irritation, loss of appetite, convulsions, and heart abnormalities.

Festive foliage

During the holiday period, we bring many different plants into our homes. But watch out for the berries – like on Mistletoe and Holly – as these are unsafe for your pets. Speaking of Holly, the spiky leaves can damage your pets’ tongue, throat or stomach. Watch out for Poinsettias as well, as these are mildly toxic to both cats and dogs. Find out more on how to keep your cat safe at Christmas and how to keep your dog safe at Christmas.

How to stop your pet from eating indoor plants

If your beloved pet has a penchant for chewing on your beautiful indoor plants, you’re probably combing the web for the perfect solution. Here are some of our most favourite tips:

1. Move your houseplants. The quickest – and easiest – solution is to simply move your plants out of reach. Perhaps place them on tall surfaces, or invest in some plant stands!
2. Train your pet to leave your plants alone. Typical training methods – like positive and negative reinforcement – can be a great tool to get your cat or dog to stop chomping on your plants.
3. Spray them with diluted lemon juice. Both cats and dogs absolutely hate the smell and taste of citrus. Mist your plants with the juice, but make sure it’s diluted. And voila – your pet will no longer want to chew on your fabulous fern. Cayenne pepper works just as good!
4. Choose plants your cat or dog hates. There’s literally a plant called Scaredy Cat… Yes, we’re being serious. And, as the name suggests, it scares off cats – and most dogs, too!

Having said all that, you should always avoid plants that are toxic to your pet. Cats and dogs can be persistent, meaning they’ll probably still find a way to eat them.

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