Pet-Safe Plants and What To Avoid
- Deniza Marcinkevica
- Sep 25
- 2 min read
By: Taquera Woodson, Social Media Intern and Deniza Marcinkevica, Manager Business Development, Skytails.com
As a pet parent, you want to create a safe, cozy environment for both you and your pet. While bringing greenery into your home is a great way to improve the air quality and enhance your living space it is important to select pet safe plants. Plants that might be safe for humans may not be safe for pets and can be toxic when digested and simple if they chew on them. It is important to know which plants are safe and which ones to avoid.
Why Should You Care About Plant Safety for Your Pets?
Our pets have a natural curiosity and may chew on or nibble at the plants around them. While this can be a normal habit, it can lead to health issues depending on the plant. Some plants contain chemicals or compounds that are toxic to animals that can cause mild or severe stomach reactions like organ failure or even death.
Research Plant Safety
Before purchasing any plant, it’s essential to research its safety. There are resources available to help you choose the right plant. The ASPCA Plant Toxicity Database that lists thousands of plants and their toxicity to pets. You can search by plant name and it will tell you if it's toxic to your pet. There are many reputable garden centers that will provide information about the safety of plants for pets. Be sure to ask staff for advice.
How to Safely Introduce Plants to Your Home
Gradual Introduction: If you’re introducing plants into your home for the first time, do so gradually. Monitor your pets reactions, especially if they are naturally curious about new items in their environment. This gives you enough time to ensure they don’t start chewing on the plants.
Safe Spaces for Plants: Designate specific areas in your home like high shelves, hanging planters, and plant stands to keep them out of reach from pets.
Training Your Pets: Train your pets to understand what is “off-limits”. Positive reinforcement, like treats, and praise when they avoid plants, can be a good way to teach your pet to steer clear of plants.
Understanding Symptoms of Plants Poisoning
There are common symptoms to look out for in case you pet consumes a toxic plant and it is important to recognize signs of poisoning.
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Drooling
Lethargy or weakness
Trouble breathing
Irregular heartbeat
Loss of coordination
If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your vet or an emergency pet poison hotline right away. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is a great resource: (888) 426 - 4435.
Conclusion
By carefully selecting the right plants and taking precautions, you can enjoy a pet-safe environment. Keeping toxic plants out of your pets reach and choosing safer options will ensure a safe and healthy environment for your pet. Remember pets are naturally curious, but wih the right plant choices you can create a home with greenery without worrying about them being potential health hazards to your pets.
SkyTails Connection
Skytails provides pet owners with a reliable financial safety net, so unexpected emergencies like toxic plant exposure can never stand between their pets and the care they need.
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