Holiday Plants May Be Toxic to Your Pets

poinsettiasEveryone loves to decorate the inside of their home with holiday decor.  Natural accent plants help give your home a natural, serene feel.  Nothing helps build the excitement for the holidays as well placed foliage and plants.  Some of you green thumbs out there however are unknowingly placing certain plant species in your home that may be harmful to your pets.

A toxin can be described as a substance that when introduced or applied to the body, can cause bodily and physiological damage.  We all know that we shouldn’t touch poison ivy because it will cause skin irritation.  Who can resist bending down to smell a beautiful rose?  Our pets however, may not know the difference between edible and toxic plants.  The smell receptacles of a dog are 40 times more sensitive than humans.  This means they are much more curious to smell and touch things, including plant material that is in their path.

If your pet does consume a toxin, you may see numerous abnormalities as a result.  Signs may include vomiting, diarrhea, depression or excitement, dilated pupils, convulsions, ataxia (uncoordinated movements, hyper salivation), excessive drooling and general abdominal pain.

According to the ASPCA and the Animal Poison Control Center, plants were included in the top 10 pet toxins of 2010 (along with human medication, insecticides, herbicides and chocolate to name a few).  Here are some holiday plants that you may want to make sure you keep out of reach from our furry friends.

  • Poinsettia – Poinsettias are often described as toxic plants to your pets.  Although these beautiful flowers do contain some toxic sap that may cause vomiting and nausea your pet would need to ingest a large amount in order to be fatal.  Typically the sap will have an irritating taste and most house pets will stay clear.
  • Hollies and Mistletoe – Hollies are typically used for their beautiful glossy green foliage and bright red berries.  Be cautious as these plants may cause abdominal pain and upset stomach which can lead to vomiting and diarrhea.  Keep in high out of reach areas to make certain your pets do not eat these toxic plants.
  • holly wreathLilys (Lillium) – The white Easter Lily is commonly displayed indoors during the Easter Season but can be flowering during the winter season. Use caution with indoor cats as the flowers may be attractive as a play toy.Amaryllis
  • Amaryllis – This plant is regularly found in homes.  If ingested by your pet, it could cause vomiting, depression, abdominal pain, hyper salivation and lack of eating as well.  Typically, these plants are not blooming until spring in most homes but some gardeners may get blooms during the winter.
  • Christmas Tree – A common Christmas tree you may find in many homes is the fir tree.  Although not particularly attractive, the needles can cause stomach irritation and may actually puncture inner linings.  The oils from the fir tree may also cause excessive drooling and vomiting.christmas tree

Don’t be afraid to decorate your home with wonderful holiday plants.  Just remember – those wonderful plants that we have come to love may be harmful to our furry friends.  Be informed of what you are bringing in to your home so that you and your pets can enjoy the natural beauty of plants!

If you want more information on these plants and other possible toxic plant materials please contact your local veterinarian.  If you have any concerns please contact our staff at Buck and Sons Landscape Service.  Have a very happy holiday!

 

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