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Pets, Pets, Pets
Outdoor plants toxic to household pets
Pets bring many posi�ve changes to households. Pets can make homes more lively, and the companionship of animals can reduce feelings of loneliness while offering addi�onal health benefits to pet owners.
Individuals who are preparing to adopt or purchase pets need to be mindful that they may need to make changes at home to ensure residences are safe places for pets to reside. Much in the way new parents must assess the environs for poten- �al hazards to babies, pet owners should conduct similar inspec�ons. These safety checks should occur both inside and in the yard if pets will be spending �me outdoors. Poisonous plants are a poten�ally hidden hazard prospec�ve pet owners must address before bringing a new pet home.
People generally do not give much thought to the plants they include in their homes and yards beyond the care instruc- �ons and how they can add to the aesthe�c appeal. Homeowners may know if a plant likes the sun or shade, but they may not realize its poten�al for toxicity. That’ s because adults in par�cular are not prone
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to inges�ng the plants in their yard that are inedible, unlike curious pets that may sniff and nibble plants when exploring their environments. For those with dogs and cats that will spend �me outdoors, it’ s best to be aware of these poten�ally toxic plants, courtesy of the ASPCA, Dr. Buzby’ s and Garden Design.
• Autumn crocus: There are various types of crocus plants, but the one most toxic to dogs is autumn crocus. The en�re plant is toxic, but the highest concentra- �on of toxic agent is found in the bulbs.
• Sago palm: People in warm climates may enjoy the look of palm trees on their proper�es. Despite its tropical and relaxing appearance, the Sago palm is extremely poisonous if ingested by pets, with the seeds being the most toxic part.
• Lily: Lilies are highly toxic to cats in par- �cular. Even grooming pollen off of their fur or drinking water out of a vase where lilies are kept may cause kidney failure.
• Tulips and hyacinth: These early bloomers are beau�ful flowers, but each contains a similar alkaloid toxin that is mild to moderately toxic to pets. Again, the highest concentra�on is found in the bulbs, which dogs or cats may dig up while exploring.
• Aloe vera: This soothing succulent may be part of an arid climate landscape. Aloe contains saponin, a toxin with foaming proper�es that can harm pets if ingested and cause severe dehydra�on.
• Begonia: A popular outdoor and houseplant, begonia has decora�ve flowers and a�rac�ve leaves. However, the plant can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, par�cularly the underground tubers.
• Azalea: This flowering shrub produces flowers in many colors, so it’ s o�en present in household landscapes. It’ s important to note that azaleas can be toxic to dogs and cats.
• Yew: American, Canadian and Japanese yew may be found around proper- �es. These shrubs produce small red berries with green centers( almost looking like the reverse of a Spanish olive with pimento). Yew is toxic to cats and dogs.
• Dahlia: Dahlia produce flowers in different colors, so they are common in flower beds. However, these plants also are mildly toxic to pets.
Many toxic plants can irritate the gastrointes�nal system in pets, poten�ally resul�ng in vomi�ng, diarrhea or lethargy. Those who suspect a pet has ingested a poisonous plant should contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or their local veterinarian to learn about how to respond to possible exposure.
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Madison Magazine March-April 2025 5