Discover the plants that are toxic to dogs and cats that you should keep an eye on

Pets love to explore and play outdoors on warmer days, but it's important to always be aware of the most common plants that can be toxic to dogs and cats. Although many species are dangerous to both, dogs are more likely to bite and ingest pieces of foliage, flowers, trees and shrubs due to their strong exploratory instinct, especially as puppies. If your pet has eaten something they shouldn't have , some of the most common symptoms of poisoning are vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, breathing difficulties, excessive salivation, lack of appetite, and fatigue. “If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic plant or food, immediately contact your trusted veterinarian,” emphasizes Dr. Karin Botteon, veterinarian and technical manager at Boehringer Ingelheim.

What are the main toxic plants for pets?

Among the flowers, daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, hydrangeas and geraniums can be poisonous to them. Chrysanthemums , in addition to being toxic if ingested, can cause skin irritation in cats that rub against them. Cats can also be seriously poisoned by lilies. , which cause kidney failure – especially if your cat licks lily pollen from its fur while grooming.

Other foliage plants can also be toxic to pets , such as the Adam's rib , the snake plant and the philodendron , which are present in many homes. Pay attention to where the pots of these plants are placed inside your home, remembering to leave them out of the reach of animals. If you have a vegetable garden at home, you should also check which species can be harmful to pets. The leaves, stems and green fruits of tomatoes are toxic to pets, for example. The leaves of potato plants can be dangerous to dogs and cats, and green or sprouting potatoes can cause discomfort to pets if ingested. Additionally, oregano, mint, lemongrass , and lavender are common garden herbs that can cause gastrointestinal problems if eaten. consumed by pets. If you are unsure whether a plant is safe, do not hesitate to ask a trusted veterinarian . Leave the pots in fenced or high places, where animals cannot access them, and monitor them. In these cases, it is always better to be safe than sorry. .