PETS

Dangerous (some deadly) plants for dogs and cats: which ones to avoid

Plants are a common presence in our homes, but we are not always aware of their dangers, especially to our pets such as dogs and cats.

Some plant species, or parts of these plants, can be toxic to our pets and cause even serious health problems, so it is important to know which toxic plants to look out for.

In this photo gallery you will find a selection of common, but also lesser-known plants that can be dangerous to pets' health.

You will then be able to understand which plants may pose a risk to the safety of our animal friends and be able to take the right precautions to avoid problems. (source: aspcapro.org)

Wikimedia - Stan Shebs
Lily (Lilium)
The Liliaceae family is considered very toxic to cats, particularly to the kidneys; in fact, ingesting a small amount of these plants is enough to cause serious damage (source: aspcapro.org)
Wikimedia - Didier Descouens
Common yew (Taxus baccata)
This plant contains taxin, a toxic substance that causes central nervous system effects such as tremors, coordination problems and breathing difficulties. More serious consequences include gastrointestinal irritation and heart failure, which can cause death. The yew is also known as the "tree of death." (Source: aspcapro.org)
Wikimedia - Holek
Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta)
All parts of this plant are poisonous, but it is the seed (or nut) that is most dangerous; in fact, the seed contains toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, convulsions, and liver failure. (source: aspcapro.org)
Wikimedia - Di Cdpanic
Kalanchoe, of the Crassulaceae
This plant contains components that can produce gastrointestinal irritation and endanger the heart by altering heart rate and rhythm. (source: aspcapro.org)
Wikimedia - Alvesgaspar
Oleander (Nerium oleander)
All parts of this plant are toxic, as they contain cardiac glycosides: the consequences of animal ingestion of these substances include irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, abnormal heart function, hypothermia, and even death. (Source: aspcapro.org)
Wikimedia - Stanislav Doronenko
Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum)
The Compositae family contains pyrethrins, which if ingested can cause gastrointestinal disorders, vomiting and diarrhoea. More serious consequences are depression and loss of co-ordination. (source: aspcapro.org)
Wikimedia - Alvesgaspar
Cyclamen (Cyclamen)
Consumption of cyclamen by animals can cause gastrointestinal irritation, intense vomiting and in severe cases even lead to death. The highest concentration of this toxic substance is typically found in the root part of the plant. (Source: aspcapro.org)
Wikimedia - Jim Evans
Azalea / Rhododendron (Rhododendron)
Azaleas are flowering shrubs in the genus Rhododendron. This plant family is considered very toxic because they contain grayantoxins, substances that can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea, weakness and central nervous system depression in animals. The most severe symptoms can even lead to coma and death from cardiovascular collapse. (source: aspcapro.org)
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