Our pet friends bring joy and companionship to our lives. Our landscaping and house plants can be friends or foes to our furry companions. To keep them safe and protected, it’s important to be aware of the plants we keep around them. Many plants are safe and even useful to our animals, but some can pose deadly risks to their health. We are including a partial list of some common harmful and safe plants for your pets here but a much more inclusive list can be found on the ASPCA website.
Harmful Plants:
- Lilies: Beautiful but extremely toxic to cats, causing kidney failure if ingested.
- Azaleas and Rhododendrons: Ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly deadly heart issues in dogs and cats.
- Sago Palm: All parts of this plant are poisonous to pets and can cause liver failure if ingested.
- Oleander: Though beautiful the oleander contains cardiac glycosides that are highly toxic to dogs, cats, and humans if eaten.
- Poinsettia: While not as toxic as once thought, poinsettia can still cause gastrointestinal upset in pets.
Safe Plants:
- Spider Plant: This popular indoor plant and air purifier is safe for pets.
- African Violet: A lovely flowering plant adds a bit of color to your space and is safe for pets.
- Boston Fern: This beautiful fern is safe and can even help improve indoor air quality.
- Bamboo Palm: Visually appealing, this palm is safe.
- Blue Echeveria: Many succulents are safe options that add an interest to your decor.
- Marigolds: Marigolds brighten your garden, are safe for pets and even help deter pests.
- Pet Grass: Give your cats a treat and provide them with a pot of pet grass. They’ll enjoy the nibble.
All pets are different, and some can have allergies or sensitivities to different plants. If you’re unsure about a specific plant, it’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian.
You can create a pet-friendly environment by choosing plants that are safe and healthy as well as beautiful.
