PRIMGHAR, Iowa — As most pet owners know, there are certain types of plants that should be kept out of reach or removed from the home once a pet is introduced. Cats and dogs have a tendency to explore and get themselves into trouble, so it is our job to keep potential poisons out of their path. One distinction I was recently asked about is a good one to point out here: Why are some things called venomous and others considered poisonous? This is a great question with a simple answer – if it bites you and you die it is venomous, if you bite it and you die it is poisonous. For example, Rattlesnakes are venomous while many mushrooms are poisonous. With that distinction in mind, there are many houseplants that can poison the furriest family member. There are too many plants to name them all here, so a more extensive list can be found on the Animal Poison Control Center website where they outline which plants are harmful and why.
One family of plants will be the focus here: Araceae or Alum family. This grouping of plants includes Pothos (Devil’s Ivy), Dieffenbachia (Dumbcane), Philodendron, Schefflera (Umbrella Plant), and Chinese Evergreen. Most of these are grown for their colorful leaves and are very common across the state. The concern comes from a crystal-like structure found in cells throughout these plants called a Raphide, which is formed from calcium oxides. These microscopic raphides are very needle-like so when an animal bites into a leaf, they are deployed to attack. When raphides do come into contact with exposed flesh they prick the skin and release a toxin. The target area is the mouth and throat of any predator interested in eating it, but there may also be a reaction if the sap comes into contact with any other exposed skin. Signs of a reaction after biting or eating any of these plants include swelling in the mouth and throat, numbness, stinging, burning, and a lack of speaking ability.
There is good news after all this! Most pets will not be able to eat enough of these plants to be fatal, but that does not mean they will not try. Moving the offensive plants to off-limits rooms or outside may be enough to protect pets. Of course, the only completely effective way to protect your pet is to dispose of these plants entirely, especially if a pet has a determination to chew on plants. Other common houseplants that pose a threat to the well-being of both pets and children include Jade plant, all types of true lilies, Amaryllis, and Geraniums. These plants contain chemical compounds that target the gastro-intestinal track rather than structures that puncture. Whether you are a new pet or new plant owner, a bit of research before-hand will help avoid potential disasters in the future!
Sources: Raphide Crystal Cell Development In Leaves Of Psychotria Punctata (Rubiaceae)
Study on irritation of calcium oxalate crystal in Araceae plants
— Dawn Henderson, Horticulture Program Coordinator
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
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