Indoor plants are often used as home decor or to purify stale air. Unfortunately, while indoor plants may be beautiful, some can be poisonous to cats and dogs--some plants can even cause death. All pet owners should be aware of what plants are safe and what plants are poisonous to their pets before bringing in a new houseplant.
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Aloe Vera
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Many families keep an Aloe Vera plant around for its medicinal properties. However, it is important to keep the plant out of reach and away from all pets, as the aloe it produces is extremely poisonous to pets. Aloe can cause vomiting, diarrhea and changes in urine color.
Poinsettia
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The poinsettia is a popular plant, particularly around the holiday season. It comes in various shades of red, cream and pink. Animals who consume the stems or leaves of the poinsettia may have an irritated stomach or mouth and may vomit. Fortunately, poinsettias do not usually cause death in pets.
Cyclamen
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Also known as sowbread, cyclamen causes vomiting, diarrhea, changes in heart rhythm, salivation and seizures in dogs and cats. If enough of the plant is ingested, death can occur.
Azaleas
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Azaleas, which come in a variety of colors, are a popular indoor and outdoor plant. All portions of the plants, including the roots, stems and flowers, are poisonous to pets. Signs of ingestion include hyper salivation, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, collapse and death.
Chrysanthemums
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The leaves and stalks of chrysanthemum plants are poisonous to household pets, causing diarrhea, vomiting, poor coordination, hyper salivation and contact dermatitis.
Lilies
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Lilies are extremely popular in flower arrangements. However, be aware that calla lilies, Tiger lilies, Easter lilies and Japanese showy lilies are all extremely poisonous to cats. Even a tiny nibble on the tip of a leaf can cause kidney failure and death.
Angel's Trumpet
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Angel̵7;s trumpet goes by many names including hell̵7;s bells, devil̵7;s trumpet and moonflower. This poisonous plant is a popular houseplant because it is easily grown. However, it has a deadly past and was often used in suicide and murder potions and is related to the deadly nightshade and mandrake plants. This plant contains alkaloids that are extremely toxic to children and animals.
English Ivy
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Like many household plants, English ivy causes vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain in cats and dogs. The plant's most poisonous portions are its leaves; however, the berries can also be poisonous.
Hydrangea
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Hydrangeas are toxic to dogs and cats, causing symptoms such as depression, vomiting and diarrhea. Fortunately, most instances are mere gastrointestinal disturbances and pass through the animal without any serious harm. The most poisonous parts of the hydrangea are its leaves and buds.
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