Some of your indoor plants aren’t safe if you have dogs or small children, which is a sad but inevitable revelation in the road of plant parenthood. Many common houseplant genera are toxic in some form or another, whether mildly or seriously. Others, far worse, can irritate the skin if handled too much.
The good news is that with a little forethought, you can figure out which hazardous houseplants to avoid, assess the risk to your pets and family, and yet have a lively and beautiful indoor plant collection.
Here are ten toxic houseplants that, while we love them, should be used with caution if your children or pets will have access to them. But first, a word of caution: “toxic” is a relative term, and the intensity of a reaction will depend on the degree of exposure (amount consumed), the plant species, and your pet’s specific characteristics. Some poisonous houseplants cause short-term symptoms (such as vomiting). Others irritate the skin, while others might have more serious, life-threatening consequences if swallowed in large quantities. This is by no means an entire list, and we strongly advise you to conduct additional study (ASPCA has a great database for pet owners).
Poisonous Houseplants for Pet Owners and Parents to Avoid
Starting with one of the biggest names, Philodendron is a vast genus of tropical plants with a wide range of growing habits, leaf forms, and colors that make it ideal for indoor use. Plants in this genus are somewhat harmful to humans, as well as to dogs and cats. Oral irritation, soreness and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing are all symptoms of exposure.
Because of the shape of the leaves, members of this genus, which is linked to the philodendron, are commonly referred to as Arrow-head vine. The symptoms of exposure are identical to those stated above for Philodendrons, despite the fact that it is only mildly poisonous.
The Zamioculcas Zamifolia, sometimes known as the ZZ Plant, is one of those “tough as nails” houseplants that can thrive in a variety of conditions, including low light. It also happens to be on the list of deadly houseplants, and all parts of the plant are poisonous to people and pets.
Sansevieria (also known as Snake Plant) is another toxic beauty that causes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea when consumed.
Pets and youngsters looking for a flowery snack should avoid this tropical stunner with huge paddle-shaped leaves and colorful, exotic flowers. Fortunately, the poisonous parts are largely the flower and fruit, and the symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness are minor.
Despite being in the Asparagus genus (yes, like the vegetable! ), this plant is not edible. Although there are other species that go by the name Asparagus Fern, the ones typically used as indoor plants are poisonous, and contact with the plant can cause skin irritation.
The Schefflera genus contains some magnificent forms that make excellent medium-light floor trees. However, keep children and dogs away because ingestion can cause severe mouth irritation, profuse drooling, and vomiting.
Euphorbia, oh, Euphorbia. Members of this diverse genus (some plants resemble cactus, while others are herbaceous and hardy in the outdoors!) contain a white sap that causes severe skin irritation (itchy rash!) even after a brief contact. Internal irritation is caused by ingestion in a similar way.
If consumed, this typical Crassula genus member is toxic to dogs, cats, and people, producing vomiting, depression, and incoordination.
It may seem unusual that Aloe, which is widely appreciated and used for its therapeutic and skin-healing powers, is classified among dangerous houseplants. While the gel is edible, other portions of the plant can cause vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea if consumed.
Even if it’s tempting to leave the aforementioned specimens out of your indoor plant collection, it’s necessary to think about your risk factors. Do you have little toddlers who might eat your plants on the floor? Is your cat fond of playing with and chewing on plants? Will your dog chew on the tree’s trunk? You might be able to lessen your risk by employing some excellent spatial planning, depending on your home, your creatures, and whatever plants you have.
- Hang hazardous houseplants out of reach of your pets and children with a plant hanger.
- Consult our list of pet-friendly indoor plants for ideas on which floor plants will be the most accessible to pets and children.
- Make use of your furniture: bookshelves, cabinets, and even the top of the refrigerator can be used to house plants that your dog or children can’t reach. Keep in mind that cats have the ability to reach even the most remote locations.
- Consider getting a mounted plant to keep them out of reach of pets and children.
Do you have any more plant-safety recommendations for pets and kids to share? Do you have any questions concerning your collection? Let us know in the comments!
What happens if my dog eats Monstera?
You’d think the answer to this question would be a simple ‘yes or no,’ but it isn’t.
The ASPCA has classified the genus Monstera, a popular aroid houseplant, as poisonous. It may be argued, however, that this isn’t the accurate term. This genus is hazardous because it contains calcium oxalate crystals in all of its components – more on what these are below.
When swallowed, calcium oxalate crystals are extremely unpleasant, especially to the mouth and stomach. If your cat eats a piece of your Monstera (whether it’s a Monstera deliciosa, a Monstera adansonii, or another variety), it’s not going to be happy. This thing is said to be really unpleasant (I haven’t tried it!).
The truth is, despite the fact that your cat or dog may show signs of pain and irritation after biting into your Monstera, it should be alright otherwise. The only major danger is if you have an unusual swelling reaction. There is no toxin in its system that is progressively shutting down its body: only a nauseous sensation on the tongue and throat.
Are Philodendrons toxic to dogs?
For cats and dogs, the philodendron family, which includes Swiss cheese plant, heartleaf, and fiddle-leaf philodendron, has a mild to moderate toxicity level. Oral irritation, soreness and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing are all symptoms of oral irritation.
Are monsteras poisonous to pets?
Monstera deliciosas are one of the most popular tropical houseplants, and their magnificent tropical foliage is frequently highlighted on social media and in home decor. Monsteras, also known as “Swiss cheese plants” or “Split-leaf philodendrons,” are low-maintenance plants that make an appealing addition to any home. Monstera deliciosa, unfortunately, includes insoluble calcium oxalates, which are particularly harmful to cats. Burning of the lips and mouth, excessive drooling, oral swelling, and vomiting are all symptoms.
Is a cheese plant toxic to dogs?
During lockdown, sales of house plants have soared, with many of us taking advantage of the additional time to cultivate our own mini jungles at home.
Patch has seen a 500 percent surge in commerce when it comes to all things green and leafy, whether it’s tranquil peace lilies or towering Swiss cheese plants.
However, some indoor plants are harmful to dogs, causing stomach problems and even death if consumed.
If you can’t stage your displays high enough to keep them out of harm’s way, it’s important familiarizing yourself with this list before attempting to bring the outdoors inside.
Peace Lily – Spathiphyllum
Peace lilies, with their powerful white blossoms towering high above the gleaming green leaves, are beautiful, but they can cause digestive problems in dogs. They can cause vomiting and inflammation of the lips and tongue, resulting in drooling and difficulty swallowing if consumed.
Aloe vera – Aloe barbadensis
Despite human perceptions of aloe as a therapeutic plant, any member of the aloe family is harmful to dogs. Vomiting and diarrhoea are common side effects, as are occasional depression and changes in urine color.
Devil’s Ivy – Pothos
With its ability to hang and fascinating foliage, Devil’s Ivy is a popular choice for home plants. Unfortunately, intake by dogs might result in vomiting, excessive salivation, and difficulty swallowing due to irritation of the mouth and tongue. Both the stems and leaves are poisonous and cause quick symptoms, preventing lethal doses from being consumed.
Swiss cheese plant – Monstera Deliciosa
Monsteras, often known as Swiss cheese plants, are eye-catching indoor plants. Because they can reach heights of many feet, they are frequently out of reach of dogs. The toxins, on the other hand, might create stinging feelings around the mouth, which can lead to vomiting and difficulties swallowing if swallowed.
Are philodendron leaves poisonous?
Philodendrons are the most extensively used indoor plants, however they are harmful to humans and pets. Eating them can cause lip, tongue, and throat swelling, as well as vomiting and diarrhea. Philodendrons, like ivy, have a trailing habit, so keep them away from the ground.
Is Monstera a philodendron?
Even though it isn’t classed as a philodendron, the monstera looks and acts like one. Split-leaf philodendron refers to two distinct philodendron species: Philodendron bipinnatifidum and Philodendron selloum.
What part of the philodendron is poisonous to dogs?
The calcium oxalate crystals found in all sections of the philodendron might be harmful to your pet. Calcium oxalate is an oxalic acid-based calcium salt that causes irritation and numbness in the tissues it comes into contact with. Chewing any portion of the plant causes instant swelling and stinging discomfort in your dog’s mouth and throat as the microscopic crystals attach themselves deep into the delicate tissues around. If you swallow any of the sap or plant debris, the irritation will likely spread down your throat and into your gastrointestinal tract. Your pet may experience uneasiness as well as significant inside pain as a result of this. If the airway becomes clogged, swelling of the tongue and neck has been known to cause breathing problems.
Which of the following houseplants can be toxic to pets?
Although houseplants can add color and life to a room, several kinds are toxic to pets and can even be fatal if consumed. The plants on the following list are poisonous to your pet because of the toxic compounds they contain. Because many of these plants go by many names, it’s important for all pet owners to become acquainted with them. It’s also a good idea to keep a first-aid kit on hand for your pet in case of an accident.
Lilies
Although the Lily family of plants is broad, some of its members are harmful to dogs and cats. Dogs and cats are both harmful to the Mauna Loa, also known as the Peace Lily, but cats are exclusively toxic to the Stargazer and Easter Lilies. In fact, if left untreated, the Stargazer and Easter Lily can be lethal to cats since it impairs the animal’s appetite and kidneys. If your dog or cat eats the Peace Lily, he or she may vomit and have difficulty swallowing due to inflamed lips and tongue.
Aloe Vera
While Aloe Vera is beneficial to people because of its skin-smoothing effects, it is harmful to dogs. The leaves contain a form of gel component that isn’t hazardous to your dog if eaten, but the rest of the plant can cause digestive problems in dogs.
Ivy (Hedera Helix)
We’ve all heard about Poison Ivy, but even normal Ivy, despite its beauty, can be hazardous to a dog. If a dog eats the plant, it may get a rash and/or respiratory problems, but things can quickly escalate because Ivy can also cause a coma or paralysis.
Jade (Crassula Ovata)
Jade Tree, Dwarf Rubber Plant, Chinese or Japanese Rubber Plant, Friendship Tree, and Baby Jade are all names for the same plant. Keep it away from your pet dog or cat, whatever you want to name it. Nobody knows what the precise poisons in this plant are, but swallowing it can cause vomiting, ataxia (lack of coordination), bradycardia (slow heart rate), and/or depression.
Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
Dieffenbachia is harmful to both dogs and cats and is also known as Dumb Cane, Exotica, or Tropic Snow. The chemicals in this plant can cause mouth and tongue burning and swelling, as well as trouble swallowing, vomiting, and excessive salivation. It can cause breathing problems and even death in some circumstances.
Elephant Ear (Caladium)
Malanga, Via Sori, Pai, Taro, Cape, or Ape are some of the other common names for this colorful plant species. Because the compounds contained in it are comparable to those found in Dieffenbachia, the reactions are nearly identical. This means your pet may experience oral problems, excessive salivation or drooling, vomiting, and swallowing difficulties.
Pothos/Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum Aureum)
The plant, also known as Satin or Silk Pothos, is toxic to both dogs and cats and can cause mouth and tongue irritation. Additionally, your pet may have vomiting, excessive salivation, and difficulty swallowing. The plant is related to Philodendron and can produce symptoms that are similar.
This exotic-looking plant in all of its forms might cause troubles for your companion dog. The roots, leaves, and even the seeds are included. All parts of the plant are dangerous, and consuming any of them can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and even liver failure.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas)
This plant isn’t recommended for your pet because it can cause irritated reactions such as diarrhea and vomiting.
Emerald Fern, Emerald Feather, Sprengeri Fern, Lace Fern, and Plumosa Fern are all names for the same plant that is harmful to both dogs and cats. The plant contains a toxin called Sapogenin, which when consumed can cause diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and skin inflammation.
Sowbread (Cyclamen)
This flowering plant will light up any room, but dogs and cats will be poisoned by it. It can cause excessive salivation/drooling, diarrhea, vomiting, and irregular heartbeats and/or seizures if swallowed. In severe circumstances, it might even be fatal.
There are various varieties of plants that are safe for your pet dog to adorn your home with because they contain no hazardous toxins or chemicals. The most well-known and well-liked of these are
Is Monstera poisonous to touch?
Various members of the aracae (arum) family are popular houseplants, including philodendron, monstera deliciosa, caladium, dumbcane, and peace lily, but beware: Toxic calcium oxalate crystals can be found in their leaves and stems. While these won’t hurt your hands, they can cause irritation or stinging if you contact your lips, mouth, or tongue after touching the plant. “It can make you feel like your larynx is paralyzed at its worst,” Myers explains. After touching these plants, using gloves or washing your hands can help.
Is Monstera Adansonii toxic to dogs?
Small animals, such as dogs and cats, are poisoned by Adansonii’s Monstra. Calcium oxalate crystals can be found in the majority of the plant’s stems, leaves, and roots. Although the toxicity of Monstera Adansonii is rarely lethal, it’s best to keep these plants on higher ground and out of reach of your pets.