We like to think that our pets will intuitively stay away from poisonous plants but that’s not the case. Chewing on some common garden flowers and shrubs or house plants can potentially make your pet very ill and even cause death. Below are some plants commonly found in New Zealand gardens and homes that you should avoid if you have a cat or dog.
In the garden:
Aloe Vera, Alyssum, Daffodils, Tulips, Crocus, Iris, Daphne, Monkshood (Wolfsbane), Bird of Paradise, Rhododendron, Azaleas, Oleander, Lily of the Valley, Jasmine, Rhubarb and Wisteria. Note that toxins in bulbs are more concentrated than in the leaf or flower so store carefully and keep an eye on your dog if he likes digging up things.
Pot plants:
Asparagus Fern, African Violet, Dracaena, Kalanchoe, Cyclamen, Geranium, Ficus, Peace Lily and Philodendron.
Symptoms of plant poisoning:
Lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea or seizure.
What to do if you think your pet has been poisoned
If you suspect your cat or dog has ingested a poisonous plant or even just gnawed on the leaves, contact your veterinarian immediately. Time is of the essence. There are homeopathic remedies that can help with poisoning and can be given immediately at home before going to the vet.