Highly common spring plant is extremely toxic to pets
Spring is around the corner and pet parents need to remain vigilant (Image: Getty)
With spring hovering achingly within our grasp, our beloved spring blooms are making a comeback as they begin to flower all across the UK.
As rising temperatures finally start making our island warmer, telltale signs of spring have begun to appear — we’re talking gorgeous blooming flowers synonymous with the season.
While most of us are rejoicing, pet owners need to stay alert as spring comes around, because there’s an extremely common spring plant and its beautiful flowers that pose a great health risk to dogs and cats.
In fact, all you have to do is step outside for a walk to notice that this plant has already begun flowering on sidewalks, in gardens and in green spaces.
For pet owners, spring will bring with it serious seasonal risks and pet parents need to remain vigilant when they’re out and about with their furry four-legged friends — because although Daffodils may signal the joyous and much awaited start of spring for us, for dogs and cats, this cheery plant can be dangerously toxic.
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There’s a very common spring plant that’s highly toxic to cats and dogs (Image: Getty)
Dave Martin, Veterinary Surgeon and Group Director of Animal Welfare at IVC Evidensia, has warned against the dangers daffodils pose to pets. He has also shared his expert advice to help pet owners keep their animals safe as spring approaches.
Why the spring plant is so toxic for pets
Dave warns: “Daffodils may be a spring favourite, but they’re highly toxic to dogs and cats if eaten. Owners should stay alert on walks and keep any daffodils at home well out of reach. Even the water from a vase containing daffodils can make pets unwell if they drink it, so always dispose of flowers and water carefully.”
The veterinary surgeon adds: “Dogs that love to dig need extra supervision, as the bulbs contain the highest concentration of toxins.”
Daffodils aren’t the only spring plants pet owners need to look out for though. Dave shares: “Other spring favourites like tulips, snowdrops, buttercups, and bluebells might look lovely but can also be harmful if ingested. Signs of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhoea and unusual tiredness.”
Spring favourites — fleas, ticks and snails
Spring’s mild, damp conditions also provide the ideal breeding ground for fleas, making now the perfect moment to ensure your pet’s flea treatment is up to date.
Ticks likewise become increasingly active throughout the spring period, hiding in long grass and wooded areas. Following your pet’s daily outdoor walks, it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection of their fur, concentrating particularly on the head, neck and ears to detect any uninvited hitchhikers promptly.
For pet owners, spring will bring with it serious seasonal risks (Image: Getty)
When removing ticks, owners must use a tick removal tool, as attempting to remove these parasites by hand risks leaving their mouthparts behind, which can then require surgery to remove in more severe cases. If owners are unsure of how to safely remove a tick, they should seek advice from a vet.
This period also sees greater numbers of slugs and snails and whilst they may appear innocuous, they can transmit lungworm – a potentially lethal parasite if ingested.
To maintain your pets’ protection and keep them parasite-free, your vet can suggest monthly preventative treatments such as chewable tablets or spot-ons.
Can pets get hayfever?
Much like humans, dogs and cats can experience hayfever as well.
As spring emerges and pollen levels increase, certain pets may begin sneezing, develop watery eyes or runny noses – whilst others display symptoms through persistent itching, nibbling, or sore skin patches.
In some instances, they can even shed small sections of fur where they’ve been scratching or licking.
Here’s what pet owners should do about it:
These spring plants and their flowers pose a high risk to the health of dogs and cats (Image: Getty)
Wipe your dog’s paws and coat after a walk. This will help in washing away pollen and ease the irritation.
Cat owners are recommended to do the same after their feline friend has been outside.
If your pet is still struggling, a vet can advise on simple treatments to calm spring flare ups.
It’s also imperative to seek immediate veterinary help if your pet appears to have ingested toxic plants or is showing symptoms of toxic poisoning such as vomitting, diarrhea, intense abdominal pain, drooling, tremors, convulsions, and, in severe cases, collapse or respiratory failure.
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