Veterinary Viewpoints: Poisonous plants in Oklahoma

Veterinary Viewpoints: Poisonous plants in Oklahoma

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Media Contact: Kinsey Reed | Communications Specialist | 405-744-6740 | [email protected]

Oklahoma's weather is great for growing many ornamental plants, but some of these blooming beauties can be dangerous for pets. Knowing which plants are toxic is important to keep your pets safe.

Would it be springtime in Oklahoma without daffodils? Unfortunately, these flowers are toxic to both cats and dogs. They contain toxins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain. Eating a lot of daffodils can lead to shaking and heart problems, with the bulbs being the most poisonous part of the plant.

A common ornamental plant that is very toxic to both cats and dogs is the sago palm. While its tropical fronds look nice in gardens, it is dangerous if your pet eats it. The seeds are especially harmful and can cause vomiting, diarrhea and serious liver damage.

Another plant to watch out for is oleander. It has pretty flowers, but it is very poisonous to cats and dogs. Eating any part of this plant can make your pet sick with symptoms like vomiting, drooling and a slow heartbeat. In some cases, it can even cause heart failure.

Azaleas and rhododendrons are also common in gardens, but they can make both cats and dogs very sick. These plants can cause vomiting, drooling and weakness if eaten. In severe cases, they can even affect your pet's heart.

Tulips are a popular spring flower, but their bulbs are toxic to cats and dogs. If your pet eats a tulip bulb, it might experience an upset stomach, drooling, or loss of appetite. In large amounts, tulips can cause more serious problems like a fast heartbeat and trouble breathing.

Lastly, foxglove is a tall plant with bell-shaped flowers that is very toxic to cats and dogs. If your pet eats foxglove, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even heart issues like an irregular heartbeat.

While many plants make Oklahoma beautiful, some can be harmful to our pets. It's important to know which plants are toxic when planning your spring garden display. If you think your cat or dog has eaten something poisonous, get help from a veterinary right away.

For more information on plants that are dangerous for pets, you can visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control website for a list of poisonous plants or call their hotline at 888-426-4435. They can help you figure out if a plant is poisonous and what to do if your pet eats something harmful. Should your pet need emergency attention, please do not hesitate to call the OSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for care!

About the author: Dr. Blake Murray is a Clinical Assistant Professor in Small Animal Primary Care.

Veterinary Viewpoints is provided by the faculty of the OSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. Certified by the American Animal Hospital Association, the hospital is open to the public providing routine and specialized care for all species, as well as emergency care. Call 405-744-7000 for an appointment or see more information at vetmed.okstate.edu.

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