Protect pets from toxic plants, flowers

Tuesday, July 26, 2005
by Frances Goodman, www.vvdailypress.com

An e-mail from a pet lover asks us to warn readers that lilies, whether potted, growing outside or in a bouquet are high on the list of toxins for cats.

An innocent-looking bouquet containing just a few lilies can prove fatal if any of the lily parts are chewed or ingested.

Without prompt veterinary treatment, kidney failure can develop within 36 to 72 hours.

Many other familiar plants are toxic, including azalea and oleander, both of which can cause cardiac problems if even a few leaves are nibbled on. Chewing on the leaves or base of the Sago Palm can cause liver damage.

Many decorative indoor plants, including Peace Lily, diffenbachia (also known as Dumb Cane) and the popular Pothos Ivy also are toxic.

Cats naturally seek "greens" to eat and a puppy will put anything in its mouth. This means extra caution must be taken with plants and flowers, both inside and outdoors.

For a more complete list of poisonous plants and substances, visit the ASPCA Web site at www.aspca.org and click on their Animal Poison Control Center.

In emergencies, the center will also provide 24-hour personal telephone consultation at (888) 426-4435. There may be a $50 credit card charge for those calls.

For more sources on protecting pets from poisons, visit our Poison Control Links Page