When owning pets, it is of the upmost importance to make sure that everywhere on your property is safe for them, including your garden! Therefore, when choosing plants for your outdoor space, you will need to clarify if these are non-toxic for your animals. Here is a small list of plants that you should NOT have when you own a pet:

Lilies

These flowers may seem like a nice addition to your home but are in fact deadly to cats! Even the smallest quantity of this plant can cause severe kidney failure. Every part of this plant is toxic, from the leaf to even the water from the vase! Symptoms from consuming this plant would be vomiting, diarrhoea, lack of appetite and dehydration.

Tulips

Both cats and dogs are affected when ingesting this flower, as all parts of the plant are toxic. However, the bulb in particular is where the toxins are most concentrated, meaning it is the most poisonous area for your pet. Pets may experience significant vomiting, lethargy, and abdominal pain if they ingest this plant.

Rhododendron

Not only are these plants toxic for cats and dogs but also bigger animals such as horses. The toxin in this flower affects the body’s nerve cells which can affect the cardiac muscles in the animal. This leads to a weak heart rate, digestive problems, leg paralysis and can even end in death.

Cyclamen

This plant contains an irritant called saponins which, when ingested or chewed on by dogs or cats, can lead to excessive drooling, vomiting as well as diarrhoea. The most poisonous part of this flower in the root, so if you have a pet who loves to dig, make sure this species is not a part of the décor in your garden.

Now you are aware of some of the flowers that are poisonous for your pets, you need to know which ones are safe. A small selection of safe plants would be orchids, sunflowers, and roses. Need help planting these? Our garden maintenance team are here to help, just get in contact with us today! To see a range of our services please click here!