Your springtime guide to protecting your pet from poisonous plants

Springtime is when we (hopefully) say “goodbye” to rain and “hello” to some sun, meaning we and our pets spend more time outdoors. Now, we don’t want to cause too much alarm, but spring also means some poisonous plants try to get some of their sun, too. Here, we list poisonous spring plants for pets, how to avoid them and how you and your pet can enjoy that British sunshine while it lasts. Poisonous spring plants to look out for - summarised Poisonous springtime plants, listed Amaryllis Toxicity level: Moderate Toxic part: All of it, but the bulbs are the highest-risk Bluebells Toxicity level: Moderate Toxic part: All of it Crocuses Toxicity level: Moderate to severe risk Toxic part: All of it, but the bulbs are the highest-risk Daffodils Toxicity level: High. Toxic part: All parts, but the bulbs are most toxic. Hyacinths Toxicity level: High. Toxic part: The bulb is the primary danger zone. Irises Toxicity level: Mild. Toxic part: All parts, but the rhizomes (roots/bulbs) are the most potent. Lilies (True Lilies) Toxicity level: EXTREME (for cats) / Moderate (for dogs). Toxic part: All parts—including the pollen and the water in the vase. Rhododendrons and Azaleas Toxicity level: High. Toxic part: All parts, especially the leaves. Tulips Toxicity level: High. Toxic part: All parts of the plant/flower, but toxins are most concentrated in the bulb. Wild Garlic (Ramsons) Toxicity level: Moderate to severe. Toxic part: All parts (bulbs, leaves, and flowers). If you suspect your pet has consumed one of the plants on this list then call your vet or the Animal PoisonLine for immediate advice. Prompt treatment often leads to a better outcome for your pet. How to avoid poisonous plants when you’re out and about with your pet A lot of this depends on your pet. Many cats and dogs won’t take notice of plants, while others will become obsessed over certain types. Mainly, it’s about preparation and staying calm - we don’t want you to spend your entire walk worrying, and proactivity can help with that. Dr Rebecca MacMillan says: ‘ In most cases, problems are unlikely to occur unless your pet enjoys eating plants or they have a knack for digging up toxin-concentrated bulbs. If you are walking in an area where poisonous plants are known to grow you must keep your pet close by. This will help you to monitor their behaviour and allow you to redirect them if they are showing too much interest. For some dogs, you may want to consider a muzzle to stop them eating anything they shouldn’t do - especially if they have previous form!’ Other spring hazards to look out for Grass seeds Read our grass seed prevention guide for more in-depth advice. Toadstools Our article on mushroom poisoning in dogs has more details. Symptom checker - how to know if your pet has eaten something dodgy Symptoms can include: Symptoms can appear in minutes, hours and even days, depending on the toxin and how much was consumed. You must always see a vet immediately if you notice any of the symptoms on this list - do not wait and see. What should I do if my pet has been poisoned or eaten something toxic? They must see a vet immediately. Before seeing the vet, you should try to: You should never induce vomiting.

Your springtime guide to protecting your pet from poisonous plants

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