5 Hidden Greenery & Plant-Based Dangers Pet Owners Should Avoid

We know how much joy plants bring to a home—but not all greenery is pet-friendly. Some plants and plant-derived products can cause serious health issues for dogs and cats. Being aware of the risks helps you make safe choices for your home and garden.

Here are five plant-related hazards every pet owner should avoid:

1. Lilies & Daylilies

True lilies (such as Easter lilies, tiger lilies, and Asiatic lilies) and daylilies are among the most dangerous plants for cats. Even a small exposure—licking pollen from fur or drinking water from the vase—can cause kidney failure. Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, and loss of appetite. While dogs are less sensitive, ingestion can still cause stomach upset. If you have cats, it’s safest to avoid these flowers entirely.

2. Sago Palm

Sago palms add a tropical look to indoor spaces, but every part of the plant is toxic to pets, especially the seeds. Ingesting sago palm can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and liver failure. Sadly, even with prompt treatment, this poisoning can be fatal.

3. Syngonium (Arrowhead Plant)

This popular, low-maintenance houseplant contains insoluble calcium oxalates that can cause oral pain, drooling, pawing at the mouth, and difficulty swallowing. While symptoms are usually not life-threatening, they can be very uncomfortable for your pet.

4. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)

Dieffenbachia is a longtime favorite for brightening indoor spaces, but it contains the same type of irritating crystals as syngonium. Ingestion can result in intense mouth and throat irritation, swelling, and vomiting.

5. Plant-Based Essential Oils

Essential oils are often marketed as natural and safe—but many are distilled from plants that are toxic to pets. Oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus, citrus, peppermint, pine, and cinnamon can cause drooling, weakness, vomiting, and even neurological signs. Cats are especially vulnerable because their livers cannot process certain compounds in essential oils. Inhalation from diffusers can be just as harmful as ingestion. If you use essential oils, keep them out of reach and choose pet-safe options only under veterinary guidance.

What to do if your pet is exposed:
If your dog or cat has chewed on a toxic plant or come into contact with harmful essential oils, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435 and head to Red River Animal Emergency Hospital (701) 478-9299. Bringing a sample of the plant or product can help us identify the toxin quickly.

Safer alternatives:
Choose non-toxic plants like spider plants, Boston ferns, and calatheas for greenery. For scents, try pet-safe herbs like rosemary or catnip, or use unscented diffusers with simple water vapor for humidity.

Keeping your home safe for pets doesn’t mean giving up plants—it just means picking the right ones. Your trusted veterinarian in Fargo, ND is always here to guide you in creating a healthy, pet-friendly space.