Poison in the garden: what plants are dangerous to pets?

July 6, 8:34 PMPittsburgh Animal Health ExaminerAlexis Jenny

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AP Photo/ Alan Diaz

There could be poisonous plants growing in your garden or in the nearby woods. There could be danger disguised as a potted plant on your kitchen table. Things aren't always what they seem. This is an important reminder in life. It's also important to remember when home is the place with pets and children.

Some plants already have bad reputations. For example, many people are highly allergic to Ragweed, Poison Ivy, Oak, Hemlock, and Sumac. St. John's Wort is an herb used in tea, but it can have side effects. Wisteria and Black Locust are infamous as well. However, in a world shared with billions of plants, the list of dangers is growing longer every day. Campers, hikers, and hunters often get more than they bargained for when in unfamiliar wilderness. But these dangers can be right in your backyard or even on the windowsill. Children and animals are often the victims of toxins they didn't even know existed. You may be the person with the cell phone app necessary to identify poisonous plants, but if not, there are some important things you should know about your garden and your home.

It's still the summer (thankfully) but when it comes time to decorate for winter, be cautious of the beautiful Poinsettias that abound with the Christmas spirit. These wintry flowers are toxic to pets and children.

Alfalfa is commonly made into hay for critters both large and small. Alfalfa can be deadly in large amounts to adult guinea pigs, although it can be fed to young or pregnant guinea pigs because of its high calcium content. Horses can eat it in small amounts, but the best, most nutritious hay is called Timothy.

The leaves of Arrowgrass can be toxic to animals. These plants are commonly found around water, usually in marsh like environments. Day lilies can be found in gardens, but they also grow wild and are poisonous to animals. The leaves and roots of the Iris and seeds of Morning Glories can be dangerous, as well.

Summer is the time to celebrate nature, and many of us find ourselves spending a lot of time outdoors. This summer, be extra aware of surrounding plant life and be careful not to plant pretty poison in your own backyard.

For some helpful information about gardening, check out Rose Field's “Pittsburgh Gardening Scene” page and note her article on the toxic Sago Palm plant. This plant's publicity is due to its poisonous nature.

For more information, go to:

Common Poisonous Plants by the Humane Society of the United States

Cornell University's Department of Animal Livestock “Plants Poisonous to Livestock and Other Animals”