Indoor plants decorate our home, and also purify the air, filling it with oxygen. In addition, some plants may be edible or medicinal. Everyone’s favorite aloe vera comes to mind. However, there are a number of plants that live in our rooms, the dangers and toxicity of which we did not even suspect. So, if you have the following 5 plants in your home, we advise you to get rid of them immediately.
Spathiphyllum
Although spathiphyllum are not true lilies, they are often referred to as this species. They are as toxic as lilies and pose some danger to humans and pets.
Side effects in humans:
Burning and swelling of the lips, mouth and tongue, swallowing reflexes are difficult, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea, speech is taken away.
Effects of the plant on animals:
Information on the toxicity of peace lilies is rather contradictory. However, some sources provide information about harm to dogs and cats.
When poisoned by a plant, the following symptoms are observed: burning of the skin, excessive salivation, diarrhea, dehydration, lack of appetite and vomiting. If treatment is not started on time, poisoning can lead to kidney failure, which will eventually lead to the death of the animal.
Peace lilies are poisonous
Unfortunately, peace lilies are moderately poisonous because every part of this plant contains calcium oxalate. Calcium oxalate can cause irritation of the respiratory tract and stomach when consumed in large quantities. Because of this, keep peace lilies out of the reach of pets and small children. Some other plants containing this substance are daffodils, philodendrons, hyacinths, and true lilies.
Is the peace lily poisonous to dogs?
Peace lilies are toxic to dogs if ingested, so keep them away from your beloved dogs. Calcium oxalate crystals can cause an inflammatory response. This reaction can lead to swelling of the dog’s tongue, mouth, upper airways, and throat. If your dog is suffering from peace lily poisoning, contact your veterinarian immediately for treatment.
After such an experience, most dogs will not follow the plant a second time. However, to keep your dogs safe from your indoor peace lily, place the plant out of their reach.
Is the peace lily poisonous to cats?
Yes. In fact, according to the ASPCA, peace lilies are one of the most well-known houseplants that are poisonous to cats. As mentioned, peace lilies contain calcium oxalates, which can irritate a cat’s stomach and mouth. However, in most cases, serious poisoning can be avoided because irritation sets in quickly after the first bite. Irritation usually causes cats to immediately stop eating the plant. If your cat has swallowed peace lily leaves, she will shake her head, salivate profusely, and stroke her mouth.
Cats are known for their curiosity and are also very agile. It is best to protect them from harm if you do not keep poisonous plants at home. Finally, you can also try different deterrents. Sprinkling coffee grounds around the plant or putting mothballs in a small leaky container can scare away cats.