Mach is here, and spring starts to show as the daffodils start coming into bloom in the gardens and parks. The daffodils and snowdrops coming up make people see the light at the end of the tunnel, and that spring is around the corner. There are other spring plants to be aware of.
However, it is important to remember that all parts of the daffodils – not just the bulb- are poisonous to cats and dogs.
Why are daffodils poisonous to pets?
Daffodils contain alkaloids along with glycosides which are toxic to dogs should they swallow any. These substances are found in all parts of the plant but in particular the bulb.
It is important to discourage your dog from digging up the garden and trying to eat bulbs etc. Not just daffodils,
My dog has eaten a daffodil.
If you have a scavenger and your dog accidentally eats a daffodil, it is important to be aware of the consequences. Eating the daffodil will result in vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and # Your pet may also be drooling at the mouth.
These symptoms usually occur very quickly – within 2 hours Dog and cats that have eaten daffodils will usually make a full recovery within 48 hours,
How severe the signs are will depend on a couple of factors, such as what part of the bulb they have eaten and how much. If several bulbs have been eaten, this can be more serious, especially with cats and smaller dogs. If this is the case, then you need to contact your vet.
As a precaution, I would contact either Vetfone or the animal poison line for professional advice.
Daffodils and skin issues
Whilst the skin coming in touch with the daffodil plant is not serious, it can still cause discomfort. An itchy rash can occur where the skin has come in contact. This is far more common with gardeners than dogs and cats and is known as ‘daffodil itch.’
Our top tips on daffodils
- Keep bulbs away from pets when you are planting them.
- Make sure your dog or cat does not dig the bulbs back up again after being planted.
- If you have cut flowers in the house, keep them away from your pets by placing them on a high surface.