Protecting their precious pets is something that any pet owner takes seriously. McAfee Animal Hospital works with its clients year-round to provide high-quality care.
Part of this work involves spreading awareness about potential threats to pets’ safety. In fact, many household and common plants are life-threatening to dogs and cats. McAfee Veterinarian Dr. Jessica Lisak was able to break this process down and explained which plants to look out for when it comes to keeping everyone's furry friends safe.
Here are the top 10 most poisonous plants for dogs and cats.
Lilies
Lilies, in particular, cause a large concern for cats. In fact, Lisak suggests that cat owners avoid having lilies altogether.
“In cats, lilies are the biggest concern,” Lisak said. “Ingestion of even small amounts can cause severe illness or be fatal.”
Hostas
Many homeowners love hosta plants because of their low maintenance routine. However, hostas are toxic to both dogs and cats.
Tulips
One of the most common poisonous plants is a flower. Tulip bulbs are actually quite toxic and cause severe vomiting and diarrhea in both dogs and cats if ingested.
Azaleas
Known for its beautiful flowering leaves, the azalea plant is a favorite centerpiece in many yards. Unfortunately, azaleas are also highly toxic to dogs and cats causing stomach issues as well as central nervous system failure.
Sago Palm
Sometimes referred to as Cardboard Palm, the Sago Palm plant contains seeds or nuts that are highly poisonous to pets.
Hydrangeas
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists hydrangeas as toxic to pets but also notes that death is quite rare. Hydrangeas, for the most part, cause severe stomach problems in both dogs and cats. Ingestion of hydrangeas can even cause depression in animals.
Peace Lilies
The Peace Lily contains calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth, lips, and tongue of animals who ingest pieces of this plant.
Devil’s Head/Pathos
If Devil’s Head or Pathos is eaten by a dog or a cat, it can cause serious damage to the intestinal/gastrointestinal tract. Elements of this substance cause severe swelling throughout the mouth and throat.
Lantana
This invasive shrub is poisonous and could be fatal to dogs, cats, and humans. All parts of this shrub are poisonous–even smoke created from burning the plant could be quite harmful.
Daffodils
Daffodil bulbs, the plant, and even the water they are stored in are all poisonous to both dogs and cats. Side effects include an upset stomach, dizziness, and extreme fatigue.
If you believe that your pet might have been exposed to a dangerous plant, Lisak suggests acting right away.
“First, try to identify what they ate and make sure your pet can’t ingest any more of it,” Lisak said. “Then call your veterinarian and call poison control.”
Supporting you throughout the process, McAfee Veterinary Hospital supports you and your pet every step of the way.
“We work with poison control to provide the best possible care to our patients that have ingested toxic plants,” Lisak said.
If you would like to learn more about McAfee Animal Hospital, please call (219) 462-5901 or visit its website at mcafeeah.com.