Did you know some plants are poisonous to pets?

01 May 2020 by Elissa Roberts

Everyone loves the beautiful array of flowers we have here in the Hills, but did you know some plants are poisonous to pets? Some common plants in this area which can be dangerous to pets include:

Lilies: highly toxic to cats, causing acute kidney failure which can be fatal even with treatment. Even just licking pollens off their fur can be enough to cause serious illness. Symptoms can include lethargy, inappetance, excessive thirst, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Rhododendrons and azaleas: highly toxic to dogs and cats, with symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhoea to collapse, seizures and heart problems.
Foxglove: highly toxic to dogs and cats, symptoms range from vomiting and diarrhoea to severe heart problems, collapse and seizures.
Solanum family (nightshades, tomato and potato plants): toxic to dogs and cats, symptoms may include drooling, dilated pupils, severe gastrointestinal upset, depression, weakness and collapse. Ripe tomatoes are non-toxic, but un-ripe tomatoes and raw potatoes are potentially toxic.
Daffodils/Jonquils/Narcissus: toxic to both dogs and cats, with bulbs being the most toxic. Symptoms range from vomiting and diarrhoea to collapse, seizures, heart and kidney problems.
Tulips: toxic to dogs and cats, with symptoms including skin & mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea and in severe cases breathing difficulties.
Peonies: toxic to dogs and cats, symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, collapse and heart problems.
Hydrangeas: toxic to dogs and cats, most frequently causes gastrointestinal upsets (vomiting and diarrhoea) but in severe cases may cause seizures or heart problems.
Chrysanthemums & daisies: toxic to dogs and cats, symptoms may include skin irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, incoordination and drooling.
Carnations: mildly toxic to dogs and cats, most commonly causing skin irritation and/or gastrointestinal upset.
Uncommon in Victoria but worth noting, cycads (e.g. sago palms) and Brunfelsia (Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow) are both highly toxic to dogs and cats.

Don’t forget that ornamental flowers in flower arrangements can also pose a risk to indoor pets. Be aware of the risks with any flowers or plants in your home and garden, and where possible prevent your pets from accessing them.

For more information, this Australian book http://www.poisonous2pets.com.au/ is an excellent comprehensive resource for pet owners. This website from the ASPCA (America) https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants also provides some great information about toxic and non-toxic plants.

Most importantly, if you think your pet may have ingested or been exposed to a poisonous plant, call us immediately for advice on 9751 2999.