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When it comes to the mixture of household plants and household pets, opinion varies as to how dangerous the former may be to the latter. The website of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists almost 450 possible houseplant culprits. Yet most of these are plants that are primarily irritants rather than deadly toxins.
In other words, your pet may become sick from eating these plants. How sick they get depends on how much of it they eat. But the same would hold true of eating the carpet or the couch. The first order of business, therefore, is to ensure that household plants, so far as possible, are not in eating distance of pets.
As to particular species of household plants, it would be unwise to grow a little foxglove or belladonna in the house. The most likely dangers to pets come from members of the lily family since these are often found in the house, particularly around Easter. Ivy is another common plant that offers increased levels of danger to pets.
Others on the list of household plants that are bad for pets include the ubiquitous Aloe Vera plant, the Christmastime favorite Holly, Chrysanthemum, Impatiens, Jasmine, Philodendron, Poinsettia, Rubber Plant, Silver Jade, Snapdragon, Tomato, Trumpet Vine, and Verbena. It is also possible to tally up some plants known to be non-toxic for pets. Here, one can choose from the African Violet, Bamboo, Banana Plants, Calendula, the seemingly narcotic but actually benign Catnip, Camellia, Dwarf Palm, Flamingo Plant, Giant Aster, Lady Slipper, Maui Sunset, Pink Brocade, Silver Star, and the Venus Fly Trap.
As can be seen by these two samplings, there are many that one needs to be aware of. Even these lists are built upon general reactions. Any particular pet could be exceptionally sensitive to a specific species. Watch for signs of illness such as nausea or diarrhea, coupled with indications of chewed leaves or flowers. Consult with a veterinarian if necessary and be sure to mention the house plant in question.
