National Poison Prevention Week: Plants

Today, our topic for pet poison prevention is plants and plant derivatives.

This blog is recycled and talks about our spokesdogs in the present tense; however, they are no longer with us.

Plants are such great additions to our homes. They bring color and life and sometimes even fragrances that keep us feeling great. Heck, some people start with a plant before adopting a pet. But do you know that some of the most common household plants are toxic to your pets? As well as some of those gorgeous flowers you picked up from the farmer's market? What about things you bring into your home that are derivatives of plants, like essential oils?

If you are either bringing a pet home for the first time or moving to a new house with your pets, it's a great idea to scan your yard and get to know which plants are there. Check the garden for flowers, succulents, shrubs, and trees that drop blooms, leaves, or fruit that may be toxic to your pet. Of course, you can't always pick up every single leaf and bloom that fall, but at least you'll know which areas of the yard are safe and which ones are off-limits. I've included a few lists of toxic plants for you to look over below. Remember, I am not a veterinarian or botanist. Please consult with your veterinarian if you want to know which plants may be harmful to your pets.

In addition to actual plants, I also want to bring awareness to items made from plants that we may use day-to-day in our homes. Things are derived from plants, such as essential oils, perfumes, liquid potpourri, and candles. Be sure that the oils you are using on yourself or in diffusers are not toxic to animals. In addition to toxic oils, the chemicals they are infused with might be too. Just be sure to read the fine print.

I know that we are all human. I do not expect you to remove every harmful plant from your yard or throw away all of your essential oils. This is to bring awareness to which items are dangerous for your pets. I also know that each pet is different. Some things can affect a cat's respiratory system in ways that may not affect a dog's. I also know that not all dogs like to chew on plants, but some may walk through freshly cut oleander and then lick their paws afterward. This is for you to think about and plan according to how your home and pets operate.

Remember, some of the signs of plant poisoning can be vomiting, respiratory trouble, skin irritations, incoordination, and even death. Please call your veterinarian for a long list of signs, and always call your vet if you think your pet is suffering from poisoning.

Here is a list of toxic flowers, shrubs, and garden plants online by Homes Alive Pets.

This list includes succulents that are toxic and non-toxic, like the ones our spokesdogs are photographed with above. They do not cause skin irritation or death if ingested, but may cause GI upset. But if your pet happens to be allergic, that could cause death.

Just always consult with your veterinarian.

Is clover poisonous to your pets?

Did you stick around to find out about clover?

According to the ASPCA, true Shamrock Clover, which may go by Good Luck Plant, Sorrel, that is Oxalis spp. of Oxalidaceae, is toxic to cats, dogs, and even horses.

It can cause kidney failure (rare in dogs/cats), tremors, and salivation.

If you ever suspect your pet of being poisoned, call your veterinarian or take your pet to the ER.

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