6 Common Fall Plants That Are Poisonous To Pets
As the weather cools and the leaves change, many people refresh their gardens with autumn favorites, as there are plenty of plants that'll continue to last well into fall. But these fall plants, while beautiful, can be a serious danger to pets, as some will make them seriously sick if eaten or even touched. Knowing which plants to avoid will help you keep your pets safe this season, so here are the ones to look out for.
Autumn Crocus
The autumn crocus blooms in beautiful pinks and purples during fall. While lovely to look at, this plant contains colchicine, a toxin that can cause severe symptoms like vomiting, internal bleeding, liver damage, and even organ failure in animals. Symptoms can be delayed, making it that much harder to trace. Keep in mind that all parts of the plant are toxic, even dried or wilted parts, so avoid planting it if your pets roam freely outdoors.
Oak Trees and Acorns
Fallen acorns are everywhere in autumn, and dogs, especially, might chew or eat them. Acorns contain tannins, which can upset a pet's stomach and lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or in larger quantities, kidney and liver problems. In some cases, the acorn itself can cause a blockage, as they're large enough to get stuck. If you have oak trees nearby, check your yard regularly and pick up acorns to prevent any trouble.
Lilies (Fall Varieties)
While spring lilies are more well-known, fall-blooming lilies like the red spider lily are also toxic, especially to cats. Even small amounts can cause total kidney failure. Other symptoms might include vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, and cats can get exposed just by brushing up against the pollen then later grooming themselves. Avoid all types of lillies completely if you have cats, or keep them strictly indoors.
Mums
Chrysanthemums, or mums, are a classic fall flower. They're easy to grow and come in warm, seasonal colors. Unfortunately, they contain compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and loss of coordination in pets. If you love mums, place them where your or pets can't reach them, like in hanging baskets or behind a barrier.
Bittersweet Vine
This vine is known for its bright orange berries and is more popular in fall wreaths and decor than actual planting, but it's highly toxic to both dogs and cats. Ingesting the berries can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. Pets are often drawn to the berries because of their color and smell, so avoid using bittersweet in arrangements your pets could reach, and skip planting it in your yard if they roam freely.
Yew Shrubs
Yew is often used as a landscaping shrub, as it stays green throughout fall and winter. However, all parts of the plant except the fleshy red berries are toxic to pets. Ingesting even a small amount can cause tremors, difficulty breathing, or heart failure. Because it's a common evergreen, many people don’t realize the risk, especially since the berries are usually the issue with these types of bushes. If you have pets that like to chew on plants, avoid planting yew altogether.
It's easy to forget that some of our favorite seasonal plants can be harmful to our pets. But, with a little planning, you don’t have to choose between a beautiful garden and a safe space for your animals. Stick to pet-safe varieties, keep toxic plants out of reach, and always monitor your pets when they’re outdoors. If you think your pet has eaten something toxic, contact your vet right away. A little caution can go a long way.