Toxic Springtime Plants

 Spring has definitely sprung, and with it comes beautiful flowers!  We love having gorgeous and sweet smelling blooms to brighten up the home, but if we have pets then we need to be aware that many of our favorite flowers are actually highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Lilies have many names to distinguish their different types:  Stargazer, Easter, Tiger, Japanese Show, and Day lily just to name a few.  While they have different names, all of them are equally dangerous to cats.  All parts of the plant, including the pollen, are toxic.  Ingestion of even the smallest amount (as little as 2-3 leaves or petals) can result in acute kidney injury.  Early signs may include gastrointestinal upset with vomiting, lethargy or depression, and anorexia.  It will progress to kidney failure in a few days’ time without aggressive treatment.  If caught early and treated with aggressive decontamination, intravenous fluids and supportive care, the survival rate is very good.
Bulbs (tulips, hyacinth, daffodils, Narcissus) can cause severe gastrointestinal signs and with large ingestions can even damage the heart or cause neurological signs.  The bulbs are the most toxic part of these plants.  Signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, and depression.  Signs that can occur but are rare are rapid or irregular heart rate/rhythm (tachycardia/arrhythmia), low blood pressure, and seizures.   Treatment includes decontamination, intravenous fluids and other supportive care as needed (i.e. monitoring blood pressure, giving anti-vomiting medication, or anti-seizure medication if needed).  Abdominal radiographs may also be warranted if there is worry that the bulb is causing an obstruction.
If you are ever uncertain if a plant is toxic or not, the ASPCA Poison Control has a great website that is extensive.  At www. aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control you can search alphabetically to find information on toxic and non-toxic plants.
Cinema Veterinary Centre is located at 23460 Cinema Drive, Suite L in Valencia.  For more information, please call 661-253-9300.