Pets Dining on Your Plants?

Should I worry if my pet chews on one of my indoor plants?

Veterinarians often receive calls from owners regarding their pets eating a plant.

Many plants are non-toxic, some cause minor irritations, and some can be deadly.  It depends upon which part of the plant was eaten (flower, seed, leaves, bulb, etc.), and sometimes depends upon the age of the plant.

Plant toxicity’s can mimic other diseases (i.e. gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting or diarrhea), or can cause very specific signs (i.e. specific neurological changes).  Some cause symptoms right away, others require repeated ingestion before reaching toxic levels.
Most grasses are essentially non-toxic.  Bougainvillea, canna lilly, dahlias, roses, fuchsia, gardenia, and geraniums are considered non-toxic.  Poinsettias used to be toxic, however now through genetic selection are just irritating to the digestive tract.
Dieffenbachia, caladium, and philodendron, are very irritating to the mucous membranes in the mouth.  Azaleas, daffodils, tulip bulbs, mistletoe, holly, and hydrangea cause gastrointestinal signs. Oleander is typically fatal.  Moldy walnuts can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological signs.

This is of course a short list of potential plants a pet may eat. It would be impossible to list all toxic plants.

If you are concerned, especially if your pet is having symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, behavior changes, weakness, or loss of appetite, call your veterinarian, or National Animal Poison Control at 1-800-548-2423 (there is a fee) and they can advise you.

-Dr. Sue Marshall, Feline Medical Center, Inc.