Top Indoor/Outdoor Plants that are Poisonous to Your Pets

​We understand that all the information available online about your animals can be overwhelming. Below, our doctors have compiled various educational tools to better explain your pet’s condition and some friendly, helpful safety tips.

If you suspect that your pet has become accidentally poisoned
by one of these plants, or any others,
​contact us immediately at 
​(410) 665-5255

You may also contact the ASPCA Poison Control Center at
(888) 426-4435

When summer is upon us, the risk of dogs and cats being accidentally poisoned by potentially dangerous plants increases significantly. According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, outdoor and indoor plants represent almost 5% of the calls they received in 2015. Below is a short list of the top plants and what you need to know to keep your pet safe.

• Sago Palm – This is an outdoor landscaping plant but can also be found in the house as a small bonsai plant. All parts of this plant are poisonous. This plant is considered to be potentially deadly in dogs and immediate treatment is necessary.
  
• Lilies - These beauties can be found outside, but also may brought inside as fresh cut flowers or perhaps in a florist’s bouquet. Unfortunately, lilies can be deadly to cats. A few examples include Easter lilies, tiger lilies, stargazer lilies and day lilies.
  
• Dieffenbachia – These common house plants cause poisoning in both dogs and cats. These plants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals which result in severe mouth pain when chewed. Examples of this type of plant are philodendron, peace lily, calla lily, umbrella plant, elephant ear, and others. Thankfully these plants are too dangerous, and cause minimal long term damage.