With over 22 000 indigenous species of plants in South Africa, it’s no surprise we’re a nation of gardeners and plant lovers. But we’re also a nation of pet lovers, and before introducing some greenery into your home, it’s worth knowing that some of these houseplants can be toxic to dogs, cats and other pets.
That doesn’t mean you need to give up your indoor jungle dreams, though! Here’s a guide to the most common plants toxic to dogs and cats, the symptoms to watch out for, and some safe alternatives to keep your space safe.
Another thing that’s super pet-friendly is pet insurance from dotsure.co.za. Get a free quote online, and then come back to find out which flora is harmful and safe for your pets while you wait for a call back from us.
Why Some Houseplants Are Dangerous for Pets
How Plant Toxins Affect Dogs and Cats
Plants contain natural compounds that help them survive in the wild, but those compounds can be dangerous to your pet’s system. The toxins can irritate mouths and stomachs, and in some cases, damage organs.
Common Symptoms of Plant Poisoning in Pets
Keep an eye out for:
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Lethargy or depression
- Difficulty swallowing
- In severe cases, tremors or seizures
If you notice any of these symptoms, call your vet immediately.
Houseplants Poisonous to Dogs and Cats
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
The Fiddle Leaf Fig is the Instagram star of houseplants. Its dramatic leaves and stylish vibes give it some serious décor cred. Unfortunately, this famous flora isn’t friendly to your fur-family, no matter how glamorous it looks.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Skin irritation
- Gastrointestinal irritation
- Oral irritation.
Monstera Deliciosa
Second in online popularity only to the Fiddle Leaf Fig, these trendy tropical giants contain insoluble calcium oxalates, which makes the plant mildly toxic to humans and highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swelling of the mouth or throat
- Drooling
- Vomiting.
Mother-in-Law’s Tongue / Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Low-maintenance and stylish, the Snake Plant is often found in homes and offices. But it contains saponins, which affects gastrointestinal activity if ingested.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Drooling
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea.
Aloe Vera
Often a go-to for human skincare, Aloe Vera is far from safe for pets. Despite its healing properties for humans, it’s considered mildly to highly poisonous for cats and dogs.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy
- Depression
- Loss of appetite
- Tremors
- Change in urine colour.
Cannabis (Marijuana Plant)
With more cannabis plants making their way into gardens and homes, pet exposure has become a growing concern. Cannabis poisoning in dogs is one of the most common toxic plant emergencies vets see.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Incoordination
- Tremors
- Drooling
- Seizures
- Respiratory issues
- Depression
- Coma.
String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
This succulent is native to South Africa and has become popular for its delicate beaded strings and low water needs. Sadly, it’s also another indoor plant poisonous to dogs and cats. Not only is it toxic when ingested, but sap from the beads can also cause skin irritation in animals and humans.
Symptoms to look out for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Drooling
- Lethargy.
RELATED: TOP 15 FOODS DOGS SHOULD NEVER EAT AND WHY
Cycads, Flowers, and Other Toxic Plants for Cats and Dogs
It’s not just houseplants you have to worry about. Some of the most poisonous plants for dogs and cats grow outside our homes in the garden, park or sidewalks.
Cycad Poisoning in Dogs: Why It’s So Dangerous
Cycads are one of the most toxic plants to dogs. Every part of the plant, from its seeds to its leaves, contains cycasin, a toxin that attacks the liver. Dogs are especially prone to eating the seeds which can cause severe poisoning.
Symptoms of cycad poisoning in dogs include:
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Lethargy and weakness
- Jaundice (yellowing of the gums/eyes)
- Seizures
- In severe cases, liver failure.
NB: If you suspect your dog has eaten a cycad, it's an emergency. Call your vet immediately.
Flowers That Are Toxic to Cats
Cats love to roam outside playing with leaves and chewing flowers, but some of these plants can be life-threatening. Those beautiful innocent looking lilies are one of them. Every part of the plant, even the pollen, is toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure.
Other flowers toxic to cats include:
- Azaleas and rhododendrons
- Daffodils
- Tulips
- Chrysanthemums.
Other Common Garden Plants That Harm Pets
- Oleander: Toxic to both cats and dogs, affecting the heart.
- Bougainvillaea: Not deadly, but the thorns can cause nasty injuries.
- Hydrangea: Contains cyanogenic glycosides, causing upset stomach in pets.
RELATED: SPRING PET HAZARDS: HEALTH ISSUES TO WATCH
Safe and Non-Poisonous Plants for Cats and Dogs
If you love plants but don’t want to worry about your pets’ safety, here are some non-poisonous plants for cats and dogs:
- Areca palm
- Calathea
- Spider plant
- Bamboo palm
- African violets.
RELATED: HUMAN FOODS CATS CAN AND CAN'T EAT
What to Do If Your Pet Eats a Toxic Plant
While ingesting a toxic plant won’t necessarily be deadly for your pet, it’s vital that you act quickly. As they metabolise the toxic material, their condition may worsen, even if they seem perfectly fine to begin with.
- DO stay calm and clear-headed
- DO call your vet’s emergency number
- DO clip a sample of the plant to show the vet
- DON’T induce vomiting unless instructed by the vet
- DON’T use ipecac or salt unless your vet advises; these old-fashioned approaches could have harmful side effects.
Information your vet will need
- What plant or flower was eaten
- How much your pet ingested
- Symptoms you’ve noticed.
Prevention and Safety Tips
- Place toxic plants for dogs on high shelves or use hanging planters.
- Try deterrent sprays if your fur-babies love nibbling leaves.
- Get pet insurance from dotsure.co.za!
For pet parents who are also plant lovers, dotsure.co.za pet insurance is here to ensure you enjoy stress-free cuddles with wholehearted protection. Do you have questions? Chat with Ace, our 24/7 online chatbot, online or via WhatsApp
