BEWARE OF PLANT GIFTS – A Little Pot of Poison
Mother’s Day is here again! For many, a lush indoor plant is the go-to-gift. Living, beautiful and thoughtful. These gifts ideas are prominent everywhere right now, from roadside stands, every Bunnings store and even the supermarket. If your mum shares her home with a beloved pet, that gorgeous green gesture could come with some serious health risks - or may even kill that pet. The majority of the plants being sold as choice Mother’s Day Gifts are actually incredibly dangerous to pets and BEWARE there are often no toxic warning signs displayed along with those plants on display.
At the vet clinic, we have treated far too many animals - birds, dogs and cats - made sick by common houseplants. What seems like an innocent present can quickly turn into a medical emergency. Here’s what every pet-loving gift giver needs to know.
Why Plants Can Be Dangerous for Pets
Pets are naturally inquisitive. Cats love to chew on leaves. Dogs may dig or gnaw on stems. Birds, with their powerful beaks, explore everything within reach. MANY indoor plants contain compounds that are toxic - even in small amounts.
Depending on the species and quantity ingested, signs of toxicity can range from mild mouth irritation to organ failure and death. Birds are especially sensitive due to their fast metabolism and small body size, but no pet is immune.
Common Toxic Plants to Watch Out For
Here are some frequently gifted plants that are unsafe for cats, dogs and/or birds:
Cyclamen
Easily the most popular mother’s day gift in Australia, as it flowers at this time of year. It is HIGHLY TOXIC to dogs and cats and on the caution list for birds. Can cause vomiting, diarrhea and in large amounts heart rhythm abnormalities and seizures.
Kalanchoe
Popular for its bright blooms, but it’s toxic to cats and dogs and on the caution list for birds. Can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and in severe cases, heart arrhythmias.
Geranium
Geraniums contain geraniol and linalool which are compounds that are known to be toxic to cats and dogs. There is little information available on its affects on birds, so we advise caution. Geraniums are known to cause: vomiting, depression/lethargy, anorexia/loss of appetite, and skin irritation.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Causes oral irritation, vomiting and breathing issues in cats, dogs, and birds.
Aloe Vera
While beneficial for humans, it can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in pets. (No we do NOT recommend aloe vera sprays for birds - these have been linked to gastrointestinal distress and feather destructive conditions.)
Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)
Causes drooling, swelling and vomiting in all species.
Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Highly irritating to the mouth and throat; may cause difficulty breathing.
Philodendron
Toxic to all common pets; can lead to gastrointestinal upset and organ damage.
Lilies (Easter, Tiger, Day Lilies -ANY lily should be avoided with pets)
EXTREMELY TOXIC. Even the smallest exposure can cause kidney failure. Known for killing cats, they’re also unsafe for birds and can cause vomiting in dogs.
Sago Palm
A single seed can cause liver failure.
Dracaena (Dragon Tree)
Toxic to cats and dogs, causes vomiting and lethargy; not safe for birds.
Figs (Ficus Species)
These get a special mention because even brushing against foliage and getting sap exposure can cause significant skin irritation. Rubber Plants are a common household plant. Fig plants contain Ficun and ficusin, natural chemical compounds known to cause oral and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, pawing at the mouth, lethargy and respiratory distress.
What To Do If Your Pet Eats A Toxic Plant
If you suspect your pet has chewed or ingested a plant - don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Some plant toxins act quickly, while others cause delayed but serious damage (such as lily toxicity in cats, which can take 12-24 hours to show signs). Here’s what to do immediately:
- Remove your pet from the area to prevent further ingestion.
- Try to identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a sample with you.
- Call your veterinarian or an emergency vet hospital right away.
- Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a vet.
- Keep the plant out of reach of other pets while you seek care.
In Australia, you can also contact the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 for free advice. Time matters - early treatment saves lives.
Giving a Plant Gift?
What looks like a charming green gift, could in the wrong home, be a toxic threat. Dogs, cats and birds are all vulnerable to common houseplants, so awareness is key.
This Mother's Day and other special occasions, give a gift that's as safe as it is beautiful. That little pot on the windowsill should bring joy - not danger.
