If you searched for this topic online, you already know that some houseplants are toxic to dogs. Dogs and other pets do not relate to different materials, such as some human food, the same way we do, and ingestion can be deadly. Here are seven common houseplants toxic to dogs. If you are ever in doubt about a plant you want to purchase, it is best to look it up first.
Aloe Vera
This healthful succulent is not so healthful to canines. The jelly-like substance within the aloe leaves might not harm your pet if ingested, but eating other parts of it could result in vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, and discolored urine. Its toxicity to dogs ranges from mild to moderate.
Lilies
Common lilies that are toxic to dogs include Peace lilies, Tiger lilies, Calla lilies, Wood lilies, and Stargazers. No matter what kind of lily it is, your dog should not eat it, particularly if it is in the Lilium family. Alkaloids in the plant cause red blood cell destruction, and every part of the lily is poisonous to dogs, especially the bulb.
Cyclamen
This colorful houseplant can cause a dog to undergo diarrhea, vomiting, cardiac problems, seizures, and even death if ingested. Like the lily, the toxin it contains is in the leaves, flowers, and stems but is most concentrated in the tuber.
Ivy & Devil’s Ivy
All parts of regular ivy and a popular houseplant, Devil’s Ivy, are poisonous to your pets. If eaten, it is possible that it could result in paralysis, coma, or death at its worst. The most common symptom is difficulty breathing. Call Everhart Veterinary Hospital if you live near Baltimore, MD, if your pet displays any abnormal signs.
Dumb Cane
Dumb Cane is a tuberous plant with large, tropical leaves, but it is also dangerous to dogs who like to chew plants. Common symptoms include inflammation in the mouth and difficulty breathing. If your pet were to eat large quantities of it, the symptoms would become more serious.
Elephant Ear
Elephant ear is a favorite tropical houseplant, but it is similar to Dumb Cane in its toxicity and should also be kept away from your curious pet. Should your pet have any symptoms of poisoning, call us at once in Baltimore, MD, for urgent care.
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