Houseplants and garden greenery can enhance the beauty of a home, but some plants pose serious poisoning risks to pets. Many pet owners are unaware that certain flowers and shrubs can be toxic, leading to symptoms ranging from mild irritation to life-threatening organ failure. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, a time to identify and remove harmful plants from your pet’s environment. At Advanced Veterinary Care of Greenwood Village, we want pet owners to be able to recognize toxic plants and create a safer space for their furry companions.

Indoor Plants That Are Hazardous for Pets

Many common houseplants contain toxins that can cause severe health problems in pets.

• Lilies: Extremely toxic to cats; even a small amount can lead to kidney failure.
• Pothos (Devil’s Ivy): Causes oral irritation, excessive drooling, and vomiting if chewed by pets.
• Aloe Vera: While beneficial for humans, it contains saponins that can cause vomiting and diarrhea in pets.
• Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane): Can cause painful swelling, burning, and difficulty swallowing if ingested.
• Sago Palm: One of the most dangerous plants for pets; ingestion can result in severe liver failure or death.

Outdoor Plants That Pose a Risk to Pets

If your pet spends time outdoors, be cautious of toxic garden plants.

• Azaleas and Rhododendrons: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially fatal heart complications in pets. 
• Oleander: A highly toxic plant that can cause heart failure and death. 
• Foxglove: Contains chemicals that affect heart function and can be deadly if consumed.
•  Tulips: The bulbs are especially toxic, causing severe stomach upset and organ damage.
•  Autumn Crocus: Can lead to intense vomiting, organ failure, and even death if eaten.

Keeping Your Pet Safe from Toxic Plants

You can protect cats and dogs by following simple plant safety tips. Choose pet-safe plants by researching before bringing them into your home or garden. The ASPCA has a very detailed guide on toxic and non-toxic plants that can be sorted by cat or dog toxin. Supervise time that your pet spends outdoors. If your pet roams the yard, remove toxic plants and monitor their behavior. If you must have toxic plants, use pet-proof fencing or keep the plants in places that your pet will not be able to reach.

If Your Pet Swallowed a Toxic Plant

If you suspect your pet has eaten a poisonous plant, move them away from the plant. Do not try to make them vomit; wait for veterinary instruction. Contact your local veterinarian immediately. You can also call a pet poison hotline for guidance and speak to an expert for a fee. There are several poison hotline options, like the Pet Poison Helpline, and it is good practice to save one of their numbers in your phone. Be ready to tell the veterinarian or poison control professional what plant your pet ate, about how much, and at what time.

Choose Pet-Safe Plants for Your Home This Spring

Many common plants can be harmful to pets, but by taking precautions, you can create a safe and toxin-free environment. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, and Advanced Veterinary Care of Greenwood Village wants to remind you to evaluate the plants in and around your home.

If you are in Greenwood Village, CO or nearby areas like Denver and Centennial, contact us to schedule an appointment and learn how to make your home safer for your furry companion.