One of the struggles of owning pets and plants is creating a space thats safe for both. Fortunately, most succulents are completely harmless to animals.
Additionally, most animals instinctively avoid eating succulents. They just dont smell or taste very appetizing. Consider Los Angeles, a city covered with wild Jade Plants. Jade is slightly toxic and there are more than 2.6 million cats and dogs in the city, but it is incredibly rare for a pet to try eating it.
There are, however, a few exceptions that are mildly toxic if consumed. As a responsible pet owner its important to know which house plants are safe and which could cause issues if ingested by a curious cat or dog. Read on or watch the video for all the details.
Good news for succulent fans who also love animals: most succulent varieties are completely pet-safe! Below are our five favorite types that pose absolutely no risk to our furry friends.
Pet Safety and the African Milk Plant: A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Owners
The African Milk Plant, also known as Euphorbia trigona, is a popular houseplant prized for its unique appearance and low maintenance needs. However, this plant contains toxins that can be very dangerous to pets if ingested. As a responsible pet owner, it’s crucial to understand the risks this plant poses and how to keep your furry friends safe.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about pet safety and the African Milk Plant, including
- The Toxicity of the African Milk Plant
- Signs of Poisoning in Pets
- Preventative Measures You Can Take
- What to Do if Your Pet Ingests the Plant
- Pet-Safe Alternative Plants
- Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding the dangers this plant poses will allow you to enjoy its beauty in your home while also prioritizing the health of your beloved pets, Let’s get started!
The Toxicity of the African Milk Plant
The African Milk Plant contains toxic cardiac glycosides within its stems, leaves, and latex sap. If ingested by pets, even small amounts can cause dangerous health issues. Dogs are especially sensitive, and the toxins can be potentially fatal if enough is consumed.
For both cats and dogs, ingestion can cause:
- Excessive Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Pain
- Loss of Appetite
- Depression
- Weakness and Lethargy
In dogs, it can also cause irregular heart rhythms, heart failure, and death. The toxins disrupt normal cardiac function and digestion, making this plant very dangerous for canine companions. Immediate veterinary care is essential for the best chance of recovery.
Signs of Poisoning in Pets
If you suspect your pet has ingested part of the African Milk Plant, watch for these common signs of poisoning:
- Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Pawing at the mouth or lips
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or depression
- Weakness
- Dilated pupils
- Fast or slow heart rate
- Seizures
If you see any of these symptoms, especially gastrointestinal upset or heart issues, contact your veterinarian immediately. The quicker treatment begins, the better the chance your pet will recover. Bring a sample of the plant with you if possible to aid in diagnosis.
Preventative Measures You Can Take
The best way to prevent African Milk Plant poisoning is to avoid keeping this plant in homes with pets. However, if you wish to retain it, follow these tips to lower risk:
- Place it somewhere up high and out of reach of pets. Use screened cabinets or hanging baskets.
- Train pets to avoid nibbling on houseplants. Use positive reinforcement and distraction.
- Opt for pet-friendly alternatives in spaces pets can access.
- Check the plant daily for signs of chewing or damage.
- Trim lower leaves and branches pets could reach.
- Use bitter sprays designed to deter chewing. Reapply frequently.
- Consider artificial plants for high-risk areas if needed.
Constant supervision is advised when pets are near the African Milk Plant. Any ingestion warrants an immediate call to your veterinarian.
What to Do if Your Pet Ingests the Plant
If you catch your pet ingesting any part of the African Milk Plant or see signs of poisoning, follow these steps:
- Remain calm but act quickly.
- Remove your pet from the area to prevent further ingestion.
- Check your pet’s gums and heartbeat.
- Immediately call your vet or animal poison control center.
- Follow first aid instructions you are given.
- Transport your pet to the vet as soon as possible.
- Bring a sample of the plant if you can.
- Monitor for signs of poisoning en route to the vet.
Your vet will likely induce vomiting or give activated charcoal to bind any remaining toxins before beginning supportive treatment and monitoring. The quicker you get help, the better your pet’s prognosis will be.
Pet-Safe Alternative Plants
Luckily, there are many beautiful pet-friendly plants you can opt for instead of the African Milk Plant. Here are some great non-toxic alternatives:
- Snake Plant
- Pothos
- Spider Plant
-Ponytail Palm - Boston Fern
- Parlor Palm
- Peperomia
- Christmas Cactus
- Air Plants
- Crypanthus
Always double check a plant’s toxicity before bringing it home if you have pets. Consider sticking with well-established low risk varieties to be safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are all parts of the African Milk Plant toxic?
A: Yes, the entire plant is toxic, including the stems, leaves, flowers, and sap. All parts should be kept away from pets.
Q: What if my pet just licks or chews on the plant?
A: Any ingestion can be dangerous. The toxins can be absorbed through the gums or mouth tissue. Contact your vet to be safe.
Q: Are African Milk Plants toxic to cats too?
A: While cats are less sensitive than dogs overall, ingestion can still cause gastrointestinal issues. Keep cats away from this plant as well.
Q: How much needs to be ingested to cause a toxic reaction?
A: Even small ingestions can be dangerous, especially in dogs. Assume any nibbling or chewing warrants a call to your vet.
Q: Can the sap cause skin irritation if my pet licks it?
A: Yes, the sap can cause skin redness, swelling, and sores. Avoid contact with skin as well as ingestion.
Keeping Our Pets Safe
The African Milk Plant undoubtedly makes a striking addition to any indoor plant collection. However, responsible pet owners need to weigh the risks versus rewards of keeping this toxic beauty. By understanding the dangers it can pose and taking preventative measures, you can maintain both pet health and your horticultural hobby.
When in doubt, err on the side of caution and choose a pet-friendly alternative. There are so many non-toxic options to still add beauty without worry. As pet owners, we must make our companions’ safety the top priority – while still enjoying the merits of houseplants! With proper precautions, you can have the best of both worlds.
Succulents That are NOT Pet-Friendly
Please Note: Toxicity research is an ongoing process. More varieties than those described below could also cause an adverse reaction.
Aloe vera is great for soothing skin irritations in humans. It does not, however, make a great snack for pets. The gel of the Aloe is fine to apply on both human and animal skin but should never be ingested. Aloin, one of the toxic chemicals in these plants, is a bitter, yellow liquid. Its found just beneath the outer skin of the leaves.
Symptoms: Lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, red urine
Euphorbia are known as “Milk Plants” because of the white latex sap in their stems. Unfortunately, this sap can be irritating to skin and toxic if ingested.
Symptoms: Mouth irritation, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea
Jade Plants (Crassula) are rubbery plants that are famously hard to kill. Unfortunately, Jade leaves can be irritating to cats and dogs if consumed.
Symptoms: Lethargy, clumsy movements, dry-heaving, vomiting
Source: ASPCA
Kalanchoe are prolific succulents and a good choice for new plant enthusiasts. They should, however, be out of reach of dogs, cats, and birds. If ingested, Kalanchoe can irritate your pets mouth or cause moderate digestive distress. It can take anywhere from 12 hours to five days for symptoms to show.
Symptoms: Oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea
Source: DVM360
Senecio feature a high diversity of shapes and growth habits. There is evidence to suggest that String of Pearls (S. rowleyanus) can cause an adverse reaction if ingested. Be sure to hang this trailing variety out of reach of playful cats. Other species of Senecio may cause problems as well, so use caution with this genus.
Symptoms: Listlessness, vomiting, diarrhea
Cactus are not toxic if consumed, but their sharp spines make them hazardous to pets all the same. Take particular care with members of the Opuntia (Prickly Pear) genus. They dont always have long spines, but they do have tiny, barbed glochids. Glochids spread easily (particularly when stuck to fur) and can lodge in skin.
Symptoms: Skin irritation
10 PLANTS Safe for DOGS ✅ Dog-Friendly Plants
FAQ
Are African milk plants safe for pets?
How often should an African Milk Tree be watered?
How to look after an African milk plant?
Are African milk trees good for beginners?
Help your African Milk Tree thrive in or around your house! Cacti and succulents are perfect plants for beginning plant owners because they’re easy to take care of. One of the most difficult parts of taking care of plants, especially for beginners, is knowing how often to water their plants.
Are African milk trees hardy?
African Milk Trees (Euphorbia trigona) are hardy plants, but like all living things, they can show signs of stress or poor health. Here’s how to spot common problems and simple ways to help your plant thrive: Yellowing leaves Cause: Overwatering is often the culprit.
How do you plant African milk tree?
Positioning your plant: Place the African Milk Tree in the center of the new pot and fill it with soil. Pat the soil gently to secure the plant. Watering after potting: After potting, water the plant and place it in bright indirect light. Allow the soil to dry between waterings.
Where do African milk trees grow best?
The African Milk Tree grows best in environments that are like its natural habitat: a space that is not too humid, but also not too dry. When it comes to humidity, this plant is flexible but prefers a humidity level between 30% and 50%. Most houses already fall in this range, so your plant will probably feel right at home. Back to top