Fatal Flowers
When the month of May rolls around Springtime is in the air, the flowers are in full bloom, and our pets are just as eager as we are to get out and enjoy the fresh air. Often we forget that although we all want to have fun in the sun, we do need to be cautious that our pets don’t ingest some of these beautiful plants.
Listed below are some of the most commonly planted and sprouting florals for the season that families need to be careful around their pets.
Lilies: Lilies are one of the leading plants ingested that are highly toxic to both dogs and cats. More so in cats, if even the water from the vase is ingested it can cause kidney failure.
Symptoms of Lily ingestion:
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Anorexia
- Not Eating
- Pale Gums
- Diarrhea
- Kidney Failure
- Death
Daffodils: Although Daffodils are full of sunny happiness, they can be another contributor to pet toxcicity. These flowers contain a property called lycorine, that can be toxic to animals.
Symptoms of Daffodil Ingestion:
- Drooling
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased heart rate
- Abdominal pain
- Abnormal breathing
- Cardiac arrhythmias
Tulips and Hyacinths: Tulips and hyacinths are a seasonal favorite that are often unknown that are toxic to pets. This is due to the fact that the toxicity primarily lies within the bulbs. Many times animals like to dig up the bulbs and eat them. This is when the symptoms arise.
Symptoms of Tulip and Hyacinth ingestion:
- Drooling
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased heart rate
- Increased respiratory rate
- Difficulty breathing
Begonias: These gorgeous springtime favorites contain a crystal that can cause kidney issues in pets. If your pet eats a begonia’s many stomach issues can arise.
Symptoms of Begonia Ingestion:
- Decrease in appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- lethargy
South Town Animal Hospital wants to remind you that while planting season is among us we must be cautious that some of our seasonal favorites just don’t mix with our furry loved ones.
If any ingestion occurs, call us at South Town Animal Hospital at 847-695-7387 or call ASPCA poison control at 888-426-4435.
Springtime is a beautiful season, let’s enjoy it while keeping our pets safe!
