Most poisonous plants for pets

A garden full of colour and texture looks amazing, but unfortunately there are a few dangerous plants for pets that animal-owners should avoid. Dr Rebecca Coote, veterinary manager NZ of Best For Pet clinic network, says most plants toxic to dogs and cats require ingestion – your pet needs to eat the plant for it to be a problem. However, other poisonous plants for pets can still be dangerous without being ingested. “Some plants, like lilies, can be toxic by pets – cats being the main concern – being in contact with them and then licking the pollen off their coat,” she explains.

Plants known to be poisonous or hazardous should be labelled accordingly. You can also find advice on the SPCA website, or check the common or scientific name in a list of toxic and non-toxic plants from the ASPCA. Signs your pet may have come into contact with a toxic plant include drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, lack of appetite, abnormal heart rate, weakness, hypotension, depression, transient blindness and seizures. If you notice any of these signs, seek immediate medical attention from your vet or an emergency clinic.

Below are some of the most toxic flowers and dangerous plants for pets, plus alternative, more friendly options for your cat or dog.

Common toxic plants for pets

1. Azaleas and rhododendrons

The whole plant is dangerous with moderate levels of toxicity, so it’s best to avoid these plants with pets around.

Try instead: Magnolias should work well in the same spot in your garden.

2. Chrysanthemums

Pretty to look at, but its toxins make this plant highly problematic for cats and can be toxic to dogs, too.

Try instead: Snapdragons add a safe dose of colour, minus the poison.

3. Oleander

All parts of this shrub, including its delicate flowers and sap, are highly toxic, making it one of the most troublesome poisonous plants for dogs and cats.

Try instead: Lilly pilly makes a wonderful screening plant.

4. Lilies

Lilies are toxic to cats. Ingestion can be indirect, by brushing against flowers and licking pollen off their coat, but even this small amount can result in kidney failure. Dogs may dig up and eat the bulbs, which are also toxic.

Try instead: Sunflowers are a safe, less harmful option.

5. Bulbs (such as tulips, daffodils and hyacinths)

The bulb of these cheery springtime favourites is highly toxic, and it’s not worth taking a chance on the flowers either.

Try instead: African daisies come in a range of bright colours, or you could try orchids.

6. Cycads (such as sago palm, zamia, dioon, bowenia and macrozamia)

Avoid these poisonous plants for pets – all parts are harmful. Dogs may try to eat the leaves and fruit, which are toxic.

Try instead: A bird’s nest fern makes a great statement in any garden.

7. Karaka tree

This New Zealand native is a vital food source for birds such as kereru, but can be fatal to dogs. The kernels in the orange berries are toxic and remain so for a long time, meaning your dog could get sick even from kernels that have been on the ground for several months.

Try instead: Other natives like miro and tawa are also loved by kereru. But avoid kowhai, which is poisonous to dogs.

Safety tip: Always read plant labels to check if the plant is problematic for pets.

Keep it growing

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Photo Credit: Getty Images, Alamy Stock Photo