Common Household Plants Toxic to Dogs: An ASPCA Guide

Many of us love to fill our homes with greenery, but it’s crucial to remember that some common houseplants can pose a danger to our canine companions. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) maintains a comprehensive list of toxic plants, and knowing which ones to avoid or keep out of reach is vital for pet safety. This guide highlights some of the most common offenders and the symptoms they can cause if ingested by your dog.

Popular but Problematic Plants

Lilies: Perhaps the most well-known danger, lilies, particularly true lilies like Asiatic, Easter, and Stargazer lilies, are extremely toxic to cats *and* dogs, though dogs are slightly less sensitive. Even a small amount can cause kidney failure. Symptoms: Vomiting, depression, loss of appetite, and ultimately kidney failure.

Tulips and Hyacinths: These beautiful spring bulbs contain allergenic lactones, with the highest concentration in the bulb itself. Symptoms: Intense gastrointestinal upset, including drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and possible depression. Large ingestions can cause an increase in heart rate and changes in respiration.

Azaleas and Rhododendrons: These flowering shrubs contain grayanotoxins that affect sodium channels, impacting skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, and nerve cells. Symptoms: Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, depression, tremors, seizures, coma, and even death.

Sago Palm: This popular ornamental palm is extremely toxic, especially the seeds (nuts). It contains cycasin, which can cause severe liver damage. Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), increased thirst, abdominal pain, liver failure, seizures, and death.

Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane): This common houseplant contains insoluble calcium oxalates. Symptoms: Oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Pothos (Devil’s Ivy): Similar to Dieffenbachia, Pothos also contains insoluble calcium oxalates. Symptoms: Oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Aloe Vera: While often touted for its health benefits, Aloe Vera contains anthraquinone glycosides that can cause intestinal irritation in dogs. Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and tremors.

Daffodils: Similar to tulips and hyacinths, daffodils contain alkaloids and glycosides, with the highest concentration in the bulb. Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, cardiac arrhythmias, and respiratory depression.

What to Do If You Suspect Poisoning

If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic plant, it’s crucial to act quickly.

1. Identify the plant: Knowing which plant your dog ingested will help the veterinarian determine the best course of treatment.
2. Contact your veterinarian immediately: Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Your vet can provide the best advice and treatment plan.
3. Contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: They can provide expert advice to your veterinarian. Their number is (888) 426-4435. A consultation fee may apply.
4. Bring a sample of the plant: If possible, bring a sample of the plant to your veterinarian to aid in identification.

Prevention is Key

The best way to protect your dog is to prevent them from accessing toxic plants in the first place. Consider these precautions:

• Identify and remove toxic plants: Survey your home and garden and remove any plants that are known to be toxic to dogs.
• Keep plants out of reach: If you want to keep certain plants, place them on high shelves or hanging baskets where your dog cannot reach them.
• Supervise your dog: Pay attention to your dog’s behavior, especially when they are around plants.
• Educate yourself: Familiarize yourself with the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants.

By being aware of the potential dangers and taking precautions, you can create a safe and beautiful home for both you and your furry friend.