If you are searching for a pet-safe approach to beautifying your indoor space and your garden, this article on plants toxic to dogs and cats might be a life-saver (quite literally).
By the end of this guide, you’ll learn which indoor and outdoor plants are safe for dogs and cats and which ones are best avoided.
So, here are the top plants dangerous to your dogs’ and cats’ health — and the safer alternatives.
Which Outdoor Plants Are Toxic to Dogs?
Sadly, a large number of outdoor plants are harmful to dogs, and some are even fatal. Some of these toxic plants for dogs can be present in your local park, your neighbor’s backyard, and even your garden.
While the list of plants poisonous to dogs is exceptionally long, we will focus on the most common outdoor plants toxic to dogs.
Keep on reading to find out what plants are toxic to dogs while on a walk or at the dog park.
Are hydrangeas poisonous to dogs?
The toxin found in all parts of the hydrangea plant is dangerous for your dog.
Additionally, this plant genus consists of various species, and all of them are harmful to your dog’s health.
Are azaleas poisonous to dogs?
Yes, these beautiful flowering shrubs are among the plants that are toxic to dogs.
When consumed, azaleas can cause significant gastrointestinal problems as well as discoordination, weakness, and slower heart rate.
Are lilies toxic to dogs?
The lily of the valley, the calla lily, the peace lily, the palm lily, and the autumn crocus are, according to the ASPCA, harmful to dogs’ health.
Ingestion of these lilies can lead to tremors, anorexia, and gastrointestinal distress.
Are geraniums poisonous to dogs?
In short, yes. If any part of the plant is consumed, your dog might experience drowsiness, vomiting, skin rashes, and a loss of appetite.
According to the Chemical Research in Toxicology, the first sign a dog may have consumed geranium leaves is usually vomiting.
Are marigolds poisonous to dogs?
When swallowed, the marigold plant may cause mild side effects in dogs.
Besides vomiting and diarrhea, your dog’s skin might become irritated if it comes in contact with marigold.
Although the marigold plant’s effects are typically not fatal, your dog might experience some discomfort upon exposure.
Are lilacs poisonous to dogs?
Not really. Lilacs do not have any compounds that may cause harm to dogs.
However, according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, the Melia azedarach or the Persian lilac can harm dogs.
Just keep in mind that the Persian lilac and the true lilac are unrelated.
Are tulips toxic to dogs?
Yes, tulips are incredibly toxic to both dogs and cats and are considered one of the more dangerous plants that are poisonous to dogs.
According to experts, the most common symptoms of tulip consumption include hypersalivation, lack of appetite, intense vomiting, and diarrhea.
Are gardenias poisonous to dogs?
Yes, gardenias are toxic to dogs.
This plant, which is also called the Cape Jasmine, may cause your dog to experience hives, diarrhea, and vomiting if consumed.
Is lantana poisonous to dogs?
The beautiful lantana plant is toxic to dogs and cats.
According to the ASPCA, if consumed, your dog might experience weakness, labored breathing, diarrhea, vomiting, and in the case of livestock — liver failure.
Are begonias poisonous to dogs?
Begonias, which include more than 10,000 hybrids and 1,000 species, are toxic to both dogs and cats.
According to the ASPCA, if consumed, begonias may cause salivation, vomiting, and kidney failure in livestock.
Remember, the most poisonous part of the plant is underground.
Is ivy poisonous to dogs?
Many common ivy plants, such as the golden pothos and the English ivy, are harmful to dogs and cats.
If consumed, the pet can experience mouth foaming, tongue swelling, vomiting, drooling, and diarrhea.
Is lavender toxic to dogs?
Although not fatal, the lavender plant does contain a minor amount of linalool, a compound that is toxic to cats and dogs.
However, since the lavender plant has low concentrations of that chemical, toxicity is rarely a concern.
House Plants Poisonous to Dogs
Now that you know the most common outdoor plants dangerous for dogs, let’s move on to the indoor plants.
In the following section, you’ll learn which indoor plants are toxic to dogs.
This way, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the beauty of indoor plants while also keeping your dog safe and sound.
Are snake plants toxic to dogs?
Yes, snake plants are harmful for dog consumption.
Although snake plants aren’t fatal to dogs or cats, the pet might experience uncomfortable side effects, including diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
Are hostas toxic to dogs?
Hostas contain various chemicals that are toxic to small animals, including dogs.
If the dog consumes any part of the hosta plant, it may experience diarrhea and vomiting.
Are lilies poisonous to dogs?
As mentioned before, lilies (whether outdoor or indoor) are toxic for dogs and cats.
Some types of lilies are more harmful than others, but most of them will cause discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea if eaten.
Is aloe toxic for dogs?
When talking about aloe vera, for dogs, it can be highly toxic.
Despite being a medical plant for humans, if consumed by dogs or cats, the plant will likely cause tiredness, diarrhea, tremors, anorexia, and vomiting.
Moreover, aloe vera can change the color of the dog’s urine.
Is oleander poisonous to dogs?
Yes, oleander is one of the poisonous plants for dogs. Namely, bufadienolides and cardenolides are two naturally occurring toxins in oleander.
These compounds are known as cardiac glycoside toxins because they disrupt the balance of electrolytes in the heart muscle.
Can dogs eat cactus?
Yes and no. While most cacti aren’t toxic, the cacti sap’s chemical composition can lead to gastrointestinal problems.
Some of the most common symptoms of cactus consumption in dogs include diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, and increased salivation.
Is hibiscus poisonous to dogs?
Hibiscus is a typically non-toxic plant for dogs.
However, the Hibiscus syriacus, or the rose of Sharon, is a plant species that can be dangerous for dog consumption.
If your pet consumes a substantial amount of the rose of Sharon, it can experience vomiting and nausea.
Is poinsettia poisonous to dogs?
Poinsettias are somewhat toxic for dogs, so you should handle them with care.
However, the risks of poinsettia consumption are typically mild, and the effects are rarely too serious.
The Top 10 Poisonous Plants for Dogs
Overall, these are the top 10 most dangerous plants for dogs. Keep in mind; this list features both houseplants and outdoor plants. So, what flowers are poisonous to dogs?
- Cyclamen
- Azalea
- Autumn Crocus
- Lilies
- Oleander
- Tulips
- Hyacinths
- Sago palms
- Lantana
- Daffodils
Overview of the Non-Toxic Plants for Dogs
In the following section, you’ll learn about plant alternatives for dog safety. So, relax your mind and eliminate urgent visits to the veterinarian with these plants safe for dogs.
Are daylilies poisonous to dogs?
Daylilies, unlike traditional lilies, are not poisonous to dogs.
So, you can safely grow daylilies in your garden without fearing that they might be toxic to your pet.
Just avoid true lilies at all costs.
Is jasmine poisonous to dogs?
According to the ASPCA, or the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty of Animals, all types of jasmine plants are safe for dogs, cats, and livestock.
However, when a pet consumes a typically alien plant in its diet, it may experience side effects.
Can dogs eat dandelions?
Yes, dogs can safely consume any part of the dandelion plant.
In fact, dandelion is a common ingredient in many raw dog food recipes due to its high mineral and vitamin content.
Since dandelions are quickly digested, they can be a great addition to a dog’s regular diet.
Can dogs eat lemongrass?
Yes, dogs can eat lemongrass without adverse effects. Rest assured, lemongrass is entirely safe, and it’s even rated as pet-friendly on various gardening websites.
That being said, too much of it can lead to stomach issues and blockages, as they can’t digest it properly.
Are roses toxic to dogs?
We bet you’re glad to find out that roses are not on the ASPCA toxic plants list — you can enjoy them in your garden or inside your home.
However, the rose’s sharp prickles can harm your pet, so be careful.
Is the Christmas cactus poisonous to dogs?
The Christmas cactus (also known as the Easter Cactus) is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
However, like other cacti, the fibrous matter can induce diarrhea and vomiting.
Are spider plants poisonous to dogs?
No, the spider plant (also known as the airplane plant or the ribbon plant) is safe for dogs and cats.
Since spider plants are very low maintenance, they are among the most popular pet-friendly indoor plants.
Outdoor Plants Toxic to Cats
Due to their tendency to roam, pet owners may find it challenging to keep cats away from dangerous plants. This is why it’s essential for you to be aware of all the poisonous plants for cats.
Here are the most common outdoor plants you should never let your cat nibble on.
Are roses toxic to cats?
Like with dogs, cats are safe around roses.
However, the thorns may cause harm to the paws and the mouth of the cat.
Also, if consumed in large amounts, roses can cause a bowel obstruction.
Are hydrangeas poisonous to cats?
Yes, hydrangeas are toxic for both cats and dogs, but only when consumed in larger quantities.
In those cases, hydrangeas can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats.
s and cats — it may cause skin burns and irritations.
Are geraniums poisonous to cats?
Yes, as mentioned before, all parts of the geranium plant are toxic to both cats and dogs.
According to the ASPCA, the main poisonous chemicals in geranium are linalool and geraniol.
Signs your cat might be poisoned by geranium include anorexia, dermatitis, and vomiting.
Are lilacs poisonous to cats?
Again, the Persian lilac is exceptionally toxic for both dogs and cats.
Although the common lilac is safe for pets, the Persian lilac may create gastrointestinal problems, seizures, and tremors when consumed by cats.
Are begonias poisonous to cats?
Yes, all species of begonia are highly poisonous to cats.
Namely, the sap and the juices of begonias contain tiny, needle-like crystals that are toxic to pets.
If your cat consumes the plant, it will likely vomit and experience a burning sensation.
Are daisies toxic to cats?
Yes, daisies can cause harm when consumed by cats, but the adverse effects are typically mild.
However, if consumed in large quantities, daisies can be incredibly poisonous. As mentioned, they are one of the plants toxic to dogs too.
According to the ASPCA, the clinical signs of daisy intoxication include hypersalivation, dermatitis, and incoordination.
Is hibiscus poisonous to cats?
Is hibiscus poisonous to catsTypically, the common hibiscus is a cat-friendly plant.
However, a type of hibiscus, the Rose of Sharon, can be dangerous when ingested.
House Plants Toxic to Cats
Here are some indoor plants you should avoid if you are a cat owner. Check them out.
Are snake plants toxic to cats?
Yes, snake plans are dangerous for cats and dogs alike.
Since snake plants contain saponins, a toxic chemical substance, they may cause feline vomiting, nausea, and gastrointestinal issues when eaten.
Is coleus poisonous to cats?
The coleus plant is highly toxic to cats. In fact, the cat can be in danger even if it only brushes up against the flowers or the leaves of the coleus plant.
Namely, coleus contains an essential oil harmful to dogs and cats — it may cause skin burns and irritations.
Is baby’s breath poisonous to cats?
Yes, baby’s breath is potentially dangerous for cats.
Although it is typically not fatal, the baby’s breath plant can cause diarrhea, lethargy, vomiting, and anorexia in cats.
Overview of the Most Toxic Plants for Cats
The list of plants dangerous for cats is extensive. In case you are a cat owner, and you have any of these plants, we suggest keeping your cat away from them at all times. Overall, here is a top list of plants poisonous to cats.
- Sago palm
- Tulips
- Oleander
- Lilies
- Castor Bean
- Cyclamen
- Azalea
- Yew
- Amaryllis
- Schefflera
Overview of the Plants Safe for Cats
As safer alternatives, pick these equally as stunning, cat-friendly plants approved by the ASPCA.
- African daisy
- Alyssum
- Bamboo
- Bloodleaf
- Bride’s Bonnet
- English Hawthorn
- Hollyhock
- Jasmine
- Magnolia bush
- Rose
FAQ
Can plants kill cats?
Yes, certain outdoor and indoor plants, when consumed by your cat, will cause fatal side effects.
So, make sure to triple-check this list of the most toxic plants to pets before purchasing new greenery for your living room or garden.
Will cats eat poisonous plants?
The majority of cats are picky eaters, and they are cautious about what they consume. So, poisoning in cats is typically very rare.
However, since pets like to nibble on different things, including plants, pet owners need to be careful when purchasing new greenery.
How do I know if my cat ate a poisonous plant?
If your pet has consumed a potentially toxic plant, then it may experience some of the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Fitting and twitching
- Collapse or shock
- Salivation
- Diarrhea
- Swelling of the skin and inflammation
- Depression
- Coma
What happens when a cat eats a poisonous plant?
As mentioned before, if a cat consumes a poisonous plant, it will experience some side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Unfortunately, a toxic plant can cause the pet to pass away, especially if consumed in greater quantities.
What common plants are toxic to dogs?
Common plants dangerous to dogs’ health include hydrangeas, azaleas, lilies, geraniums, marigolds, lilacs, tulips, gardenias, lantanas, and begonias. Furthermore, snake plants, hostas, and oleander are also toxic for dogs.
Will dogs eat poisonous plants?
Like cats, most dogs will not consume plants that are toxic to them. Also, some poisonous plants, such as bluebells and granny’s bonnet, need to be consumed in much larger quantities to actually become harmful, so they are less likely to cause an issue.
Why is my dog eating my plants?
If you are familiar with the history of dogs, you might know that wild canines used to eat plants and greenery leaves to fill nutrient deficiencies in their diets.
Interestingly, experts believe that the dogs of today might have inherited this tendency from their ancestors.
This kind of eating can be reduced by paying close attention to your pet and training them to avoid such plants.
How do I get my dog to stop eating my plants?
Getting your dog to stop eating your plants can be tricky. However, it’s not impossible. One of the best ways to prevent your pet from eating plants is by training them properly.
Also, make sure to feed your pet a wholesome, balanced diet full of nutrients.
If you’re looking for the best quality dry dog food on the market, check out our reader-favorite article on the topic.
How do dogs know not to eat poisonous plants?
Many creatures, especially those living in the wild, have a mixture of instinct and experience that prevents them from consuming dangerous things, such as certain plants. Also, some animals learn which foods are safe to eat from their parents.
Summary
So, we provided you with information on plants toxic to dogs and cats. Hopefully, you found this article valuable and insightful. If you do have a pet, make sure to take notes for future reference!
Also, remember to share this article on poisonous plants for cats and dogs — you’ll be helping out hundreds of animal owners across the globe.
