Spring Bulbs And Your Pet

Almost all plants that arise from bulbs or corms have the potential to be poisonous if ingested by your pet. These include daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, iris, bluebells, crocus, amaryllis, gladiola, alliums and lilies.

All parts of these plants contain toxic substances, such as alkaloids and terpenoids, which irritate the gastrointestinal tract causing drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. These signs can lead to secondary complications such as lethargy and dehydration. The most dangerous part of these plants are the underground bulbs. Dogs and cats tend not to chew the leaves, stems or flowers when planted outside. If they do, only very mild signs of poisoning would be expected unless large quantities are ingested. However, if you pet chews on or eats a bulb, signs could be much more severe. This is especially true of daffodils which have the potential to cause an irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure and seizures.

Special mention must be made of lilies of the Lilium or Hemerocallis varieties. All parts of these plants, even the pollen, are highly poisonous to cats. Kidney failure can result from merely biting into a leaf or flower.

Unless you have a very inquisitive pet, we do not think it is necessary to remove all bulb plants from your garden or home, however do be mindful of the following:

If your dog is a digger cordon off bulbs or plant them in an area your pet can not access

If digging up bulbs or storing them keep your pet away until they have been replanted or stored securely

Do not allow pets to drink water from vases that have contained these plants

It is safest to never have Lilium or Hemerocallis lilies in a home with cats

If your cat is solely an indoor cat, any greenery introduced might get a nibble. Ensure alternative safe greens are available at all times, such as pet grass, to reduce the temptation.

If you think your pet has been exposed to any of these bulbs, call us on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for a tailored risk assessment and recommendation, including first aid measures. Our service is free for all pet owners. The next pet we help could be yours. You can save a pet’s life by keeping this critical service free. Please visit animalpoisons.com.au/support to learn about ways you can support the service.