Toxic Indoor plants
With the holiday season coming up, many plants can make their way into your home by way of decoration or gifts. Many of them can be harmful to your pets if swallowed and some if touched. If the unthinkable happens, pet parents have options. The best option is to call your veterinarian. If that option is unavailable the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) are available. Both of these services will charge a consultation fee. Avoid any at home remedies unless directed by your veterinarian. Remedies such as making your dog vomit may make the problem worse.
Treatment is specific to which plant your pet has been poisoned by. Treatments include intravenous fluid, flushing of the stomach, ingestion of activated charcoal, and medications that may help your pets liver and kidneys process the toxin. It's estimated that even with treatment 1 in 100 poisoned pets die.
Here is a list of the most common ones found in Missouri and the effects they have on your pets.
Lilys - Poisonous to cats.
Even small amounts can cause severe kidney damage
These come in many different colors, shapes and sizes.
Tulips - Poisonous to Cats and Dogs
The Flowers and bulbs are toxic to Cats and Dogs. Can be fatal if ingested
Chrysanthemum – Poisonous to dogs and cats.
Causes gastrointestinal upset, including drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Daffodil - Poisonous to Cats and Dogs
Causes gastrointestinal issues, vomiting, sleepiness, wobbling, and possibly seizures. Especially the bulbs
Azaela – Poisonous to dogs.
Symptoms: severe gastrointestinal issues, weakness, and severe azalea poisoning could ultimately lead to coma and death from cardiovascular collapse.
Peace Lily – Toxic to Cats and Dogs
While not a true lily, they cause irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty in swallowing and intense burning and irritation of the mouth, lips, and tongue.
Mistletoe – Poisonous to Dogs and cats.
Symptoms of mistletoe toxicity include gastrointestinal upset, difficulty breathing, weakness, and odd behavior.
Pothos – Toxic to Cats and Dogs
Causes irritation of mouth, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Also known as Devil's Ivy
English Ivy – Poisonous to dogs and cats
Known by many names including branching ivy, glacier ivy, needlepoint ivy, sweetheart ivy, and California ivy.
Causes vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Options for non-toxic plants include but are not limited to Spider Plants, Ferns, Orchids, Palms, Prayer Plant, Wandering Jew, Peperomia, and Chinese Money Plant. It's always best to research a new plant before placing it somewhere inside your home.
