Veterinary and nutrition consultant for Burns Pet Nutrition Emily Boardman put out a stern statement to pet owners.
“Pet owners should be extremely careful about the house plants in their homes and be aware of the ones known for being toxic for their four-legged friends,” she said.
“Generally, cats tend to lick plants while some dogs in nature will eat anything in sight, which can sadly lead to fatal repercussions.”
Any dog or cat that seems to be unwell, especially if being near a toxic plant, should be seen by a veterinarian.
Here are five “toxic” plants that veterinary consultant Emily Boardman thinks all pet owners should know about.
Velvet Leaf Philodendron
These beautiful heart-shaped hanging plants (scientifically called Philodendron Micans) “can cause very severe and quick reactions in pets, particularly in dogs where their consumption can be fatal”.
Vet Emily said: “If a dog ingests a larger quantity of these leaves they may experience severe respiratory and digestive issues that even end their life.
“As well as the potential to kill your dog, these plants can also lead to them having convulsions, renal failure, and going into a coma.”
(Image: Getty)
Snake plant
These popular plants “contains toxic substances known as saponins”, said Vet Emily.
“These saponins can cause inflammation, irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and other adverse effects when they come into contact with your pet’s gastrointestinal tract,” she explained.
(Image: Getty)
ZZ Plant
Toxic to pets and humans, the ZZ plant needs to be “handled with care”.
Vet Emily elaborated: “The plants can cause diarrhoea, vomiting and severe irritation to the mouths of dogs and cats.
“The calcium oxalate & saponinsy in the plants also means they are toxic to humans, and should be handled with gloves. They can cause irritation to the skin and pain if ingested.”
(Image: Getty)
