by Grace Bathery
Both indoor and outdoor plants make our living spaces healthy and enjoyable places to spend time. But, when it comes to our animal companions, sometimes pets and plants don’t mix. In fact, some species of plants can be toxic to pets when they are exposed to or ingest them.
Prior to introducing a new plant to your home or yard, it is essential to know whether your pet will be impacted. Many alternatives exist for common plants which are toxic to pets, according to Calico Schmidt (’88 DVM’92; Department of Pathobiological Sciences), assistant teaching professor at the UW School of Veterinary Medicine.
Common plants that are not safe for pets include sago palm, daffodils, tulips, dumb cane, azalea, and English ivy. For cats, lilies are also very toxic. When exposed to these plants, pets can experience side effects ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to heart and liver failure, Schmidt says.
“Unfortunately, there are many other plants that can be toxic for pets,” the veterinarian adds. “These are just a few and include some with the most dangerous toxins.”
Although many common plants are dangerous for pets, safe alternatives exist. These include the African violet, spider plant, Norfolk pine/Norfolk Island pine, Boston fern, Burro’s tail, orchids, Christmas cactus and many other cacti (pets typically don’t try to eat them), and hen and chicks.
Several herbs are also safe to grow inside with pets, Schmidt says.
“For those who like to grow herbs indoors: parsley, thyme, and, of course, catnip and ‘cat grass’ (oats),” Schimdt says.
If your pet does become exposed to or ingests a toxic plant, call your veterinarian or emergency veterinarian immediately.
Specifically, Schmidt recommends the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, which can be reached at 888-426-4435.