Bulbs Beware!

The bulbs are pushing, and the scent of spring is in the air! But what about all of those spring bulbs and flowers that can cause issues for our pets? Pet Insurance Australia investigates.

Spring is certainly on its way. As those blistering cold mornings are replaced by the sounds of song birds and sun, it’s time to consider some of the nasties lurking in our gardens that can pose an issue to pets.

For cats and dogs, there are various common plants that can be toxic around this time of year. This includes many of your lovely bulbs that are beginning to push through.

Common Plants Toxic to Dogs

• Aconitum
• Amaryllis bulbs
• Asparagus fern
• Azalea
• Cyclamen
• Daffodil bulbs
• Day lilies
• Delphiniums
• Foxgloves
• Hemlock
• Hyacinth
• Hydrangea
• Ivy
• Laburnum
• Lily of the valley
• Lupins
• Morning glory
• Nightshade
• Oleander
• Rhododendron
• Rhubarb leaves
• Sweet pea
• Tulip bulbs
• Umbrella plant
• Wisteria
• Yew

Common Plants Toxic to Cats

• Azaleas and Rhododendrons
• Castor Bean
• Chrysanthemum
• Cyclamen
• English Ivy
• Kalanchoe
• Oleander
• Pothos
• Sago Palm
• Spanish thyme
• Tulip and Narcissus bulbs
• Yew

It is impossible to eradicate all toxic plants from your pet’s environment; however, a little common sense can go a long way in keeping your pet safe.

Train your pets to stay out of your garden and have clear garden and pet areas. Raised beds also work well with dogs. Deterrent sprays can also discourage your pet from digging or exploring your prized flower beds.

With puppies and kittens extra care is advised to ensure your super curious baby doesn’t end up playing and accidentally ingesting any of the above. Pop up temporary fencing and supervise your pets when outside until they learn where the ‘play’ areas are in your yard.

If you do have toxic plant’s, consider spraying citronella or another citrus based oil around the soil of the plant to deter your pet. Or plant herbs around the base of the offending plants that pets (particularly cats) do not like such as lavender, rosemary or lemon balm.

Popular lilies highly toxic to cats

• Asian Lily
• Easter Lily
• Glory Lily
• Japanese Show Lily
• Peace Lily
• Red Lily
• Rubrum Lily
• Stargaszer Lily
• Tiger Lily
• Wood Lily

Lilies are the main culprit when it comes to cat poisoning incidents. It’s a good idea to keep this in mind when purchasing flowers for a known cat lover and owner.

Bulbs can also be more toxic than flowers so ensure you keep these away from your pet’s environment and keep store them in sealed containers and away from you animals.  Always deter a digging dog in a known bulb area.

Garden Chemicals

This time of year, many avid gardeners will be happily out and about enjoying the spring sunshine. Remember to keep your garden chemicals out of reach and safely stored, and away from curious noses!

Prevent your cats from walking around freshly sprayed areas. These chemicals can be easily transferred to little pads, and then licked clean that can lead to intestinal issues. Always check your slug baits are pet friendly and understand the risks involved in the chemicals you choose to use on your gardens.

Many pet owners opt for the natural approach, however it’s important to read all labels. Even natural products can have adverse reactions in pets.

Happy safe gardening!

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