Regardless of tree type, pick up any fallen needles. Most are able to tolerate severe growing conditions, including drought, harsh winds and poor soil. The needles can create more of an issue, as they are not easily digested and can cause gastrointestinal irritation, … Cat Proof Christmas Trees at a glance. The Garden Factory Inc. Plants Toxic to Dogs & Cats Common Name Other Common Name Botanical Name Toxic to Toxic to What's Toxic? Tree needles also can obstruct or puncture her gastrointestinal tract," the company added. Do not add aspirin, sugar, or anything to the water for your tree if you have pets in the house.". Many toxic plants are irritants: they cause localized inflammation of the skin, mouth, stomach, etc. The ASPCA warned: "Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe. Are Christmas trees poisonous to dogs and cats? Toxicity: Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats, Toxic to Horses. Pine (Pinus spp.) ", Blue Cross for Pets noted: "Also be wary of using any fertilisers or plant food on your tree if it's potted, as many are toxic to cats and can seep into watering trays.". Though its bark and needles are not poisonous to your pets if consumed, yet the Christmas tree is a little bit dangerous for your cats and dogs. Provide plenty of water to keep the cat hydrated if the vomiting is excessive, and take it to a veterinarian if the problem persists. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) noted: "Amaryllis, mistletoe, balsam, pine, cedar, and holly are among the common holiday plants that can be dangerous and even poisonous to pets who decide to eat them. The Australian pine is also called the Norfolk pine, house pine, and Norfolk Island pine. Christmas trees can be dangerous for dogs and cats if your pets consume their needles or ornaments, drink the tree water or chew on the Christmas tree lights. Cat behaviour expert Marilyn Krieger of CCBC told Petcha that “pine needles can be ingested and puncture intestines, and pine is highly toxic to cats, potentially causing liver damage and death. The Yew Pine is poisonous for both cats and dogs. Since you know that Christmas trees are toxic to cats, it might be best to use a fake tree to avoid the risk of illness. Pine trees aren't toxic to dogs, but they can be to cats and can cause liver damage and even death. Monstera Deliciosa. © Copyright 2020 Hearst Communications, Inc. Pine trees are toxic for cats, notes Petcha, because they may cause liver damage and can be fatal. One may also ask, is artificial snow toxic to cats? If you have any reservations at all about your cat nibbling on your tree, please be cautious. See why nearly a quarter of a million subscribers begin their day with the Starting 5. Breakable ornaments or decorations can cause injuries. Use ribbon or twine rather than hooks to put your decorations on the tree. See a full list of poisonous plants for dogs and cats at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) website. Additionally, the water that cut trees are placed into is toxic. I grow cat grass, catmint and catnip in small pots The foliage may also cause dermatitis, so it could potentially provoke an allergic reaction if chewed. The toxic principle in other plants may have a systemic effect and damage or alter the function of a cat’s organs, like the kidney or heart. University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources: Safe and Poisonous Garden Plants. Poinsettias can be troublesome as well.". Christmas tree water can be dangerous for your pets as it is often treated with preservatives, pesticides, fertilizers or other agents, including aspirin. If you get a live tree, don’t give your cats access to the water basin at the bottom. Monstera deliciosa's are one of the most trendy tropical houseplants and are … is a huge genus of evergreen trees that vary widely in size and form. Norfolk pines (Araucaria heterophylla) thrive within U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 and 11, but are most commonly grown as indoor plants. In most cases, popular Christmas tree species, such as blue spruce and ... Holly. Bead Tree (China Ball Tree, Paradise Tree, Persian Lilac, White Cedar, Japanese Bead Tree, Texas Umbrella Tree, Pride-of-India, Chinaberry Tree) | Scientific Names: Melia azedarach | Family: Meliaceae The AVMA warned: "Water additives for Christmas trees can be hazardous to your pets. Try getting an artificial tree so your cat can't ingest sap, tree water or pine needles, which can cause nausea, vomiting, skin irritation or injury to the stomach. It takes only a small amount to result in poisoning. The exact toxic principles of the Norfolk Island pine are unknown, but consumption of this tree have been known to cause gastrointestinal upset and dermatitis in cats. Pine needles are not toxic, and most cats would not try to eat them, but if you suspect yours might do so, sweep or vacuum them up as soon as you see them. Though most cats typically will not eat the needles of a tree, there are some cats that be curious enough to do so. A young boy opening presents under the Christmas tree next to his dog on December 25, 2013 in town of Dinan in northwest France. Act as if your Christmas tree is no big deal. Hydrangea shrubs contain a toxin similar to cyanide and can quickly lead to oxygen deprivation and death. However, researchers at the University of California, Davis disagree and classify Norfolk pines as safe for cultivation near pets and children. "Small pieces of plastic or aluminum can break off and cause an intestinal blockage or mouth irritation if ingested by your dog," Hartz said. It usually contains pine resin, preservatives and fire retardants.” “Live Christmas trees are not toxic to any animal brushing past them,” Dr. Cunningham said. Some plants tagged as pines, including Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla) and Yew pine (Podocarpus macrophyllus), are not true pines, b… "Broken ornaments can cause injuries, and ingested ornaments can cause intestinal blockage or even toxicity. Cats who chew on or ingest Norfolk pines will develop gastrointestinal upset including vomiting or retching, as well as symptoms of depression such as lethargy or excessive sleepiness. Cats are naturally curious, so bringing a tree into your … The fir tree oil, if consumer by your cat, can cause mouth and stomach irritation. The American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says the Australian pine, Araucana heterophylla, contains an unknown toxic substance that causes vomiting and depression in dogs and cats. Christmas trees, whether real or artificial, can be a hazard for homes with pets during the holiday season. This tree is very … The cords should be monitored regularly for chew marks or other punctures in case your pet might have consumed portions of the wires. The National Capital Poison Center noted: "The amounts [of tree water] usually consumed by children, cats, and dogs are not poisonous. Additionally, you should regularly dispose of any stray needles–no matter the tree type–because they're sharp and may be … Regardless of tree type, pick up any fallen needles. … Blue Cross for Pets advised: "Ensure you cover any exposed wires leading to the tree with plastic or cardboard tubes, and switch lights off at the mains when you're not around to supervise your cat. Real Christmas trees contain fir tree oil that is considered to be mildly toxic to cats. Potential Threats By Christmas Tree. Keep any homemade ornaments, particularly those made from salt-dough or other food-based materials, out of reach of pets," the AVMA added. Scientific Name: Podocarpus macrophylla. If ingested, these needles could damage your pet's internal organs. If you wish to have a live tree, choose a fir or spruce. Extra care should be taken with artificial Christmas trees as they become more brittle with time. Blue Cross for Pets, the United Kingdom pet charity, warned: "There is a very small risk that sharp pine needles can cause internal damage if swallowed, or can get into eyes or ears—but cases are extremely rare. "The fir tree oils can irritate your dog's mouth and stomach and cause her to vomit or drool excessively. Cats are very sensitive the pine oils and chronic ingestions could cause problems. If you prefer a live tree for your Christmas celebration, opt for a fir or spruce over pine. Lilies: While gorgeous, these blossoming beauties should be kept far far away from cats as even the … The needles of many pine trees are toxic and may be dangerous, particularly to cattle and other livestock. It is an evergreen conifer that has strap shared leaves and ellipsoidal fruits. Though eating pine needles or sap can cause some gastrointestinal distress at the worst; no, Christmas trees are not toxic to family pets. With exception to peace lily and calla lily, all other lily varieties are major threats to cats, causing kidney failure and death. Christmas tree lights can be dangerous if your dog or cat chews on the electrical cords and lights due to the risk of mouth burns and electrical shocks. Additional Common Names: Yew Pine, Japanese Yew, Southern Yew, Podocarpus. When most folks think of evergreens, they think of Christmas trees. Although the entire plant is considered toxic to cats, it is the bulb that is the most toxic. I have 3 house only cats and 2 big house dogs, according to all the toxic lists, I have many many toxic plants in my home. Regardless of tree type, pick up any fallen needles. Pine trees aren’t toxic to dogs, but they can be to cats and can cause liver damage and even death. This has caused some to dispute whether the house pine is indeed a threat to pets including cats, however erring on the side of caution is the safest course Are Washington Hawthorns Poisonous to Dogs? All parts of Norfolk pines are potentially toxic to cats, according to Signe J. Plunkett, DVM in her book "Emergency Procedures for the Small Animal Veterinarian." Norfolk Island pine poisoning in cats is a toxicity caused by ingestion of the tree’s needles or water source. Another popular yuletide evergreen is holly. If a needle is swallowed, it can lodge in the cat’s intestines and cause irritation or even a blockage. There may be some stomach upset and even vomiting, but no serious problems are expected. If you are concerned about this, and want to have a real Christmas tree, you could consider purchasing one of the non-drop variety. "The oils produced by some real Christmas trees are also mildly toxic if consumed, causing minor irritation to a pet's mouth and stomach," the charity added. Battery powered LED lights are also a good option instead. Several festive holiday plants found in the house around Christmas time can also be hazardous for pets. Use a covered dish for your Christmas tree water and anchor your tree to a secure structure to keep it from toppling over and to prevent its water from spilling onto the floor where it can be consumed by pets. 2 Cats can get hurt, sick, or worse if they eat treated tree water, tinsel, pine needles, or glass ornaments. Typical symptoms include diarrhea, enlarged pupil, seizures, tremors, and vomiting. The category of cedar trees encompasses a wide variety of genera and species, some of which are toxic to cats. However, some homemade preservatives "contain both bleach and vinegar or lemon juice; this combination can form a poisonous gas called chlorine," the National Capital Poison Center added. Consuming them can cause intestinal blockages, sometimes requiring surgery. They are potentially toxic to cats and dogs alike, according to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Samantha McMullen began writing professionally in 2001. Norfolk pines (Araucaria heterophylla) thrive within U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 and 11, but are most commonly grown as indoor plants. However, the specific toxic principle responsible for causing an adverse reaction is currently unknown. Toxic Principles: Unknown. If you prefer a live tree for your Christmas celebration, opt for a fir or spruce over pine. Australian pine (Norfolk pine, house pine) Spruce and fir are non-toxic to cats, however, there is conflicting information on the toxicity of pine, therefore it is better to err on the side of caution and avoid pine trees. Family: Podocarpaceae. Daffodil. Nationalism and Populism Are the GOP's Future. Watch out for fallen Christmas tree needles which "are not digestible and can be mildly toxic depending upon your dog's size and how much she ingests," Hartz, the pet care company, said. Imitation snow, or flocking, can be very hazardous to pets that ingest it. Animal Poison Control; Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants; Buddhist Pine. "Chewing on wire also can cause pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) which can be fatal," Hartz warned. Regardless of tree type, pick up any fallen needles. All electrical wires for Christmas lights should be taped firmly to either the wall or the floor. Try getting an artificial tree so your cat can't ingest sap, tree water or pine needles, which can cause nausea, vomiting, skin irritation or injury to the stomach. The tree should be secured at the top and bottom. Secure your tree to prevent it from falling during curious feline exploration. “Rather, the ingestion of branches, needles or water in the tree stand can cause illness.” Pines. ", You have 4 free articles remaining this month, Sign-up to our daily newsletter for more articles like this + access to 5 extra articles. The AVMA warned: "Tinsel and other holiday decorations also can be tempting for pets to eat. Are Evergreens Poisonous to Cats? This type of Bonsai tree is a big NO if you keep pets in your house. Emergency Procedures for the Small Animal Veterinarian; Signe J. Plunkett, DVM. Common Plants and Flowers That Are Poisonous to Cats. Here we look at the dangers to look out for and how to keep your cats and dogs safe around the festive trees. Live Trees: Fir, spruce, and pine trees make excellent Christmas trees, but their oils can irritate your pet’s mouth, leading to excessive drooling or vomiting. Her nearly 20 years of experience in horticulture informs her work, which has appeared in publications such as Mother Earth News. To keep each member of the family safe this holiday season, employ one of our top tips to keep Fido and Fifi from getting up to mischief this Christmas. Yew Pine belongs to the Podocarpus genus, Podocarpaceae family. Do not confuse with yews of the genus Taxus. 1 Cats can cause a lot of problems if they play with Christmas trees, but you can take precautions. Several festive holiday plants found in the house around Christmas time can also be hazardous for pets. Decorations including tinsel, ornaments and Christmas lights also pose a hazard for your pets. Sago Palm Tree. Pine trees aren't toxic to dogs, but they can be to cats and can cause liver damage and even death. 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