When pets chew on household plants and destroy them, it’s more than just frustrating; it can be downright dangerous. Unfortunately, even some of the most common houseplants are poisonous to pets. At Crescent Springs Animal Hospital in Crescent Springs, KY, they believe in educating pet owners to ensure the pets they treat receive the best care possible. When an animal clinic educates clients on pet safety, they also prevent devastating accidents from occurring.

Animal Clinic Lists 5 Common Plants That Are Poisonous To Pets

1. Lilies

Easter lilies are toxic to certain animals, including house cats. If a cat gnaws on a bouquet of lilies and swallows just a few particles of the leaves, flowers, or roots, it can lead to kidney failure in as little as 18 hours without treatment.

2. Aloe Vera Plants

Neither dogs nor cats should be in a home with aloe vera plants, which contain a yellow substance called saponin. Saponin is toxic to pets, and ingesting plants that contain this chemical can result in violent tremors, vomiting, and diarrhea.

3. American Holly

If you like decking your halls with holly around the holidays but you have dogs, opt for artificial holly instead of the real thing. Like aloe vera plants, American holly contains saponin and is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

4. Amaryllis Flowers

Amaryllis flowers might be beautiful, but they contain a highly poisonous alkaloid called lycorine. Ingesting even small amounts of lycorine can result in tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain in both dogs and cats. If you spot your pets gnawing on amaryllis flowers, contact your emergency vet immediately.

5. Autumn Crocuses

Although you might not purchase a bouquet full of autumn crocuses, they could sprout up in your yard every fall. If you do see any in your yard or in any areas where your pets play, make sure you remove them. Autumn crocuses are toxic to both dogs and cats and may cause bloody vomiting, shock, and even serious damage to multiple organs.

If you think your pets might have ingested parts of a poisonous plant, call your local animal clinic immediately. Crescent Springs Animal Hospital serves clients in Crescent Springs, KY, and the surrounding areas. Visit their website to learn more about the caring staff at this animal hospital, and call (859) 331-6608 to make an appointment today.