Toxic and Irritant Plants
By CDWA | Sentience | Health | August 30, 2020
If your pet has ingested a toxic substance:
• Remove your pet from the area
• Check to make sure your pet is safe: breathing and acting normally
• Do not give any home antidotes
• Do not induce vomiting
• Call the ASPCA’s Animal Poisoning hotline at 1-888-426-4435 (fees may apply)
• If veterinary attention is necessary, contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately.
Common, visible signs of poisoning include:
• Hyper-salivation (drooling)
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Hiding (cats)
• Tremors/convulsions
• Increased respiration/panting
• Sudden and severe behavioural change
Common toxic plants in Canada
These plants are commonly found in Canada: wild-growing and in homes and gardens. For a more exhaustive list of more exotic plants, please see ASPCA’s website for their complete list of
Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants, affecting dogs, cats and horses (those which are non-toxic are further down the page).
Bird of Paradise (various)
More severe reactions are found in other Bird of Paradise varieties: Peacock Flower, Barbados Pride, Poinciana, Pride of Barbados.
Cherry and Choke Cherry
Information and Symptoms: Stems, leaves, seeds contain cyanide, particularly toxic in the process of wilting. Brick-red mucous membranes, dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, shock.
Lily family
Symptoms include (calla, easter, peace lily varieties): gastrointestinal upset, depression, anorexia, tremors. Day Lilies are not toxic.
Sources: ASPCA, The Kennel Club
Yes, Bird of Paradise is toxic to cats. See this link for information: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/bird-paradise