Toxic Plants Can Harm Pets
Although decorative plants can help make your home calming and appealing, they can be harmful to pets. Most of the plants that are often toxic to pets are showy and colorful. For example, true lilies are particularly deadly to cats. They are highly toxic to pets, including its pollen. Additionally, sago palms is a popular decorative palm that is poisonous if consumed by pets.
The sago palms is highly toxic to pets, particularly the seeds. Dogs often consume the seeds and this can cause the onset of both instant and delayed health concerns. It is therefore important to always keep your pets away from these toxic plants. But even if we try to ensure our pets are safe, a pet might consume something toxic accidentally.
Symptoms of infection
Common symptoms that your pet has ingested something toxic include diarrhea, agitation, vomiting, weakness, salivating, altered mentation, and pawing at the mouth. Your pet might act normal during the first few days after ingestion and the symptoms of illness become apparent later on.
If you suspect your pet has consumed a harmful plant, it is recommended that you contact the animal poison control. Alternatively, you can consult your veterinarian immediately.
However, you may pay a small charge when you contact the ASPCA animal poison control, but you can get invaluable information on so many levels. This information will help you decide if treatment is the right option for your pet. More importantly, it is an excellent resource for vets as it offers and updated toxin database, as well as effective treatment recommendations.
As mentioned earlier, while plants might make our homes beautiful, we should ensure they aren’t toxic to pets. And to ensure you buy plants that are safe, you should refer to the animal poison control list online that highlights both safe and toxic plants. Research any decorative plant before you decide to bring it home to ensure it isn’t toxic.
Examples of toxic plants
Oleander, Yew, Black Locust, Sago Palm, Autumn Crocus, Foxglove, Larspur, Rosary Pea and Dumbcane are some of the most toxic plants to both cats and dogs. Particularly poisonous are the ones that you will find in the wild like the Yew and the Black Locust. In fact, the Yew plant can cause instant death when consumed by pets.
Since most poisonings usually happen at home, it is your responsibility to be careful when you pick your decorative plants. You should place them somewhere that cannot be accessed by your furry friends.
Conclusion
While you may struggle to keep your pets safe from consuming toxic plants, they can accidentally consume harmful decorative plants. If you suspect your pet has consumed a toxic plant, consult a vet immediately.
References: Modern dog magazine, Petmd
