The arrival of spring and summer brings warmer weather, outdoor activities, and the desire to cultivate beautiful plants and flowers. However, for pet owners, gardening can sometimes pose a challenge. Many common flowers are harmful to pets. But don’t worry, there are plenty of alternatives that are both safe and stunning. Let’s explore some pet-friendly options that will make your garden a delightful haven for both you and your furry friends.
Common Flowers and Plants Harmful to Pets
It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive. To ensure the safety of your pets, refer to the resources provided by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control and the Pet Poison Helpline for a comprehensive list of harmful plants. Here are some prime examples of potentially dangerous flowers and plants:
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Daffodils or Jonquils
These beautiful flowers can cause vomiting, excess drooling, and diarrhea in pets. Ingesting large amounts can lead to convulsions, tremors, low blood pressure, or an irregular heartbeat. Pay particular attention to the bulb, which is the most toxic part.
Day Lilies (and All Varieties of Lilies)
Day Lilies and various types of Lilies are highly toxic to cats. Even contact with the pollen can cause vomiting and kidney failure. However, dogs are not affected by lilies.
Poppies
Eating a Poppy flower can affect a pet’s central nervous system, resulting in sedation or extreme excitement, inappetence, dilated or constricted pupils, and disorientation.
Marijuana Plants
While not typically grown for decorative purposes, it’s important to mention that marijuana plants are highly toxic to pets. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, incoordination, excessive drooling, low blood pressure, low body temperature, seizures, or even a coma. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary if your pet ingests this plant.
Primrose
Munching on a primrose flower can cause upset stomach and vomiting in pets.
Irises
If eaten, Irises can cause drooling, vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea in pets.
Lantana
Lantana flowers can induce vomiting, diarrhea, and even labored breathing in pets.
Tulips
Tulips can cause excessive drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. Pay attention to the bulb, which is the most toxic part.
Dusty Miller
Ingesting Dusty Miller can result in vomiting and diarrhea, while contact with the plant may cause skin irritations for pets.
Lobelia
Ingesting Lobelia flowers can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, and abnormal heart rates in pets.
Begonias
Begonias can cause nausea, drooling, and vomiting if ingested.
Geraniums
Munching on Geraniums can induce vomiting, anorexia, and skin irritations in pets.
A Note on Succulent Plants
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Succulents are popular choices for potted plants and can be suitable for decorative outdoor use, depending on your climate. Surprisingly, most succulents are safe around pets. However, some popular varieties can still be harmful:
Kalanchoe
Snacking on a Kalanchoe flower may cause vomiting and diarrhea in pets. Large amounts can lead to weakness and changes in heart rhythm.
Aloe Vera Plants
Aside from the sharp edges that can puncture a pet’s mouth, eating Aloe Vera leaves can cause vomiting and diarrhea. However, the gel of the plant is edible and safe for pets.
Jade Plant
Ingesting a Jade Plant may result in vomiting, incoordination, or diarrhea in pets.
Agave
The leaves of the Agave plant contain oxalate crystals that cause burning sensations, irritation, and swelling in the mouth and throat.
If you want to learn more about planting succulents around pets, check out my article, “Are Succulents Toxic to Pets?”
Flowers and Plants Growing in Warm, Dry Climates
If you live in a warm, arid region, you can still enjoy a stunning garden while keeping your pets safe. Here are some flowers and plants ideal for warm, dry climates:
Yucca Plant
Similar to Aloe Vera, the Yucca Plant has sharp leaves that may harm your pet’s mouth. If ingested, it can cause vomiting.
Moss Rose
Eating a Moss Rose can induce tremors, excess drooling, and kidney failure in some cases.
Oleander
Chewing on Oleander can lead to nausea, excess drooling, vomiting, abnormal heart rates, or seizures.
Bougainvillea
Consuming a Bougainvillea flower can cause gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Coneflower
If your pet consumes a Coneflower, it may experience mild stomach upset or vomiting.
Flowers and Plants That Are Safe to Plant Around Pets
Although it can seem discouraging to see a long list of potentially harmful flowers and plants, there are many pet-friendly options available for your garden. Keep in mind that even with pet-friendly plants, consuming large amounts may cause stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea. Here are some safe choices:
Pansies
Colorful and hardy, pansies are a delightful addition to any garden. They are frost-tolerant and bloom during cool fall, winter, and spring months.
Petunias
Petunias come in various colors and are not only safe for pets but also a favorite snack for rabbits. They bloom from spring until frost and thrive in warm weather.
Marigolds
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Add color to your garden while enjoying the natural mosquito-repellent properties of marigolds. They thrive in temperatures where nights don’t drop below 60 degrees Fahrenheit and days don’t exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Impatiens
Ideal for pots or gardens, impatiens prefer partial to deep shading and require frequent watering in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sage
Though not the most colorful, sage serves many purposes. It adds aroma to your garden, works as an excellent cooking spice, and repels flies. Sage thrives in direct sunlight and is a perennial plant in warm climates.
Rosemary
Adding texture and fragrance, rosemary is a versatile plant. It excels as a cooking spice and as a natural fly repellent. Rosemary favors warm, dry climates.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers bring height and beauty to your garden. They thrive in high-heat areas and full sun.
Alyssum
Alyssum acts as a fantastic filler for pots and ground cover in flower beds. It blooms from June to October, has a light, sweet scent, and prefers mild climates.
Roses, All Varieties
Besides their thorns, roses are harmless to pets. With countless varieties, you can grow roses anywhere.
Zinnia
Zinnias possess the beauty of daisies and the fullness of sunflowers. They bloom from early summer to frost and thrive in full sun.
Texas Sage
Consider adding Texas Sage to your garden, as its colorful flowers adorn shrubbery. Numerous varieties are available for warm, dry climates.
Bottlebrush
Bottlebrush is another shrub that brings color and a unique appearance to your garden. It thrives in hot, dry climates and loves sunshine.
Honeysuckle
This shrub features delicate, fragrant blooms, making it an excellent addition to garden landscapes. Place it near windows, doors, or patios to enjoy the sweet fragrance. Honeysuckle attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Nasturtium
Nasturtium’s trailing vines make it perfect for hanging baskets or containers. With various colors and varieties, it adds beauty to any garden or landscape.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons come in a wide range of colors and heights, adding elegance to your garden.
Other Solutions for Pet Owners Who Love Gardening
Gardening with pets can present challenges, but don’t let that discourage you. Get to know your pets’ personalities to find solutions that work for both you and your furry friends. Consider these alternatives:
- Plant flowers in pots or containers.
- Get creative with raised gardens or hanging flower boxes.
- Fence off a section of your yard to keep pets away from your garden.
Knowing the plants and flowers in your garden is crucial, as some pets may still be attracted to them. If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, refer to the ASPCA Pet Poison Control website, the Pet Poison Helpline website, or seek advice from a veterinarian. With proper precautions, you can enjoy your garden while keeping your pets safe. Happy gardening!
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Category: Safe Plants
