Just in Time for Spring: Choosing Non-Toxic, Pet Safe Plants
If the warmer weather has you itching to get out into the yard for some lawn and garden prep, you’re not alone. This is the season when many of us choose to beautify our yards with an array of plants, shrubbery, and other vegetation.
For pet owners, however, there are more decisions to be made beyond simply where to plant that new shrub or which flowers to grow. Choosing pet safe plants takes planning and knowledge of plant toxicity.
The Big List of Plant No-No’s
Even for those with a green thumb, figuring out which plants are best for a fur friend can be tough. After all, some of the most popular plants and shrubs are poisonous to pets.
To play it safe and avoid a pet emergency, always do your research before stocking up on lawn and garden needs. A great resource is the ASPCA’s comprehensive list of non-toxic and toxic plants. We recommend bookmarking this for future reference before going to your local greenhouse.
Some of the most toxic plants to avoid include:
- Lilies (highly toxic to cats)
- Yew tree
- Oleander
- Sago palm
- Azalea
- Cyclamen
- Ivy
- Tulip and hyacinth bulbs
- Mountain laurel
- Milkweed
- Sweet clover
There are numerous plants that can cause mild to moderate symptoms when ingested. Signs of toxicity include:
- Persistent vomiting/diarrhea
- Drooling
- Bloody or black stool
- Lethargy
- Disorientation
- Nosebleeds
- Irregular heartbeat
- Seizure
If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant (even if he or she isn’t displaying symptoms) please contact us immediately. The earlier your pet can be diagnosed and treated, the better the prognosis.
Pet Safe Plants
Thankfully, not all plants are dangerous to our four-legged friends. Some can make for a beautiful and pet-friendly lawn and garden.
Here are a few ideas for shrubs and other foliage:
- Dogwood
- Lilac
- Forsythia
- Irish moss
- Sunflowers
- Gerber daisies
- Lavender
- Petunias
- Snapdragons
- Marigolds
Keep in mind that many mulches, fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides are toxic to pets, including the highly toxic cocoa shell mulch. When in doubt, simply give the team at Rocklin Ranch a call or consult the list published by the ASPCA.
Happy planting!