Common Plants That Are Toxic for Pets
Our parks, homes, gardens, and surroundings can be filled with beautiful plants, but as pet owners, we must understand that some of these vibrant blooms and shrubs can be a serious issue for our pets. Many common plants contain natural toxins that can cause harm to cats and dogs, whether they drink the vase water, eat a bulb or simply brush against the pollen.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at why some plants are poisonous to pets, the signs of plant-related poisoning, and which common plants to watch out for. Taking a few minutes to understand the risks can go a long way in keeping your pets safe, both indoors and outdoors.
Why are some plants toxic to pets?
It can be a surprise to find out that many plants we see every day in the UK can be toxic to pets, and they can be found all over the nation, from gardens to parks and woodlands. These plants tend to have natural chemicals in them that are used to keep pests away and preserve the plant; however, no matter how lovely they might look, these plants can be harmful to our pets.
The risk of toxicity depends on the type of plant and which part your cat or dog gets hold of, such as the bulb, petals or leaves, and how much they ingest. In some cases, even a small nibble can cause problems! Plant poisoning in dogs is sadly much more common than many owners realise, especially if you have a curious pup that loves to explore with their mouth and tends to nibble things.
On the other hand, plant toxicity in cats can be even more dangerous, as cats are often more sensitive to certain compounds. For example, lilies can be deadly even if your cat only brushes against the pollen or drinks water from a vase. Over half of all cat owners are not aware that lilies are even a danger to their pet (CATS Report 2024), so it is important to educate yourself on which plants to avoid!
Symptoms of poisoning in pets from plants
Symptoms of poisoning can vary, but common signs to watch out for include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Irregular heartbeat
- Pale gums
- Blood in the faeces
- Twitching
- Lethargy or general weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Shaking, tremors, or even seizures
- Trouble breathing
It is important to note that if you notice these symptoms and think that your pet may have fallen victim to plant toxins, then do not wait. Contact your vet straight away for an expert’s advice, as acting quickly can make a difference!
Which plants are poisonous to pets?
Though many different types of plants are toxic to pets, some are more poisonous than others. We will go over some of the more popular ones by season, but three highly toxic plants include:
Lilies: All parts of the lily plant can be very toxic to cats, leading to kidney damage, which can be fatal. Even if your cat has brushed past lilies, licked, eaten the plant, or even drunk the vase water, make sure to contact your vet immediately.
Giant Hogweed: The sap of this plant contains toxins that cause burns and blisters when it touches the skin. Pets may be partly protected by fur, but exposed areas like the ears, mouth, and belly are still at risk. Licking the sap or getting it in the eyes can make things worse. Contact your vet if your pet is exposed, as it can cause problems in both humans and pets.
Mushrooms or Fungi: The UK has many types of fungi, but only some are toxic. While some just cause vomiting and diarrhoea, others can lead to serious issues like seizures, heart problems, or organ failure. Since mushrooms can be hard to identify, it’s safest to keep your pet away from them altogether.
House plants that are toxic to pets
Spring plants that are toxic to pets
Summer plants that are toxic to pets
Autumn plants that are toxic to pets
Winter plants that are poisonous to pets
Pet-friendly houseplants
Now that we have gone through common plants that are toxic to pets, here are some plants that are pet-friendly, starting with ten houseplants that are safe to have in your home for both cats and dogs:
Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
With its distinctive round leaves, this popular plant is not only Instagram-worthy but also completely non-toxic to pets.
Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
This braided beauty, which is safe for pets and grows best in bright, indirect light, is frequently linked to success and fortune.
Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.)
Unlike many other orchids, Moth Orchids are non-toxic to cats and dogs and can bloom for months with minimal care.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
A resilient and air-purifying plant that’s non-toxic and ideal for hanging baskets. Pets may be tempted to play with its arching leaves, but it’s completely safe.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Lush and graceful, Boston ferns thrive in humid spaces like bathrooms and are safe for both cats and dogs.
Calathea (Calathea spp.)
Loved for their striking patterns and leaf movements, Calatheas are non-toxic and well-suited to low-light spaces.
Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Named for the way its leaves fold up at night, this colourful plant is safe for pets and adds personality to any shelf or windowsill.
Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
A compact, low-maintenance plant with a wide range of varieties—all non-toxic to pets.
Parlour Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
A classic favourite with feathery leaves. It grows slowly, requires little maintenance, and is suitable for pets.
Conclusion
While plants are the perfect addition to bring greenery to our homes and gardens, it is vital to understand which ones may pose a risk to our pets. Being a pet owner, we need to stay informed when choosing pet-safe options to keep our pets happy, healthy and safe. Make sure when you are buying plants for your house and garden that you always double-check if they are pet safe through various sources.
It is important to contact your veterinarian as soon as you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, and if you suspect that your pet has been poisoned or has been in contact with toxic plants, then it is always best to seek help from a professional as soon as possible.