Expert reveals toxic autumn plants and how to protect your pets

As autumn is now well under way, our gardens are  becoming unrecognisable from the previous season with different types of plants that now grow and flourish in milder conditions. 

A particular concern for pet owners is whether their autumn garden is harbouring plants that could be poisonous to their pets. Most people are unaware of the plants that could be dangerous and even potentially fatal to our adored pooches!

Homedit.com consulted with green-fingered gardening expert Calum Maddock from Home Now to find out which autumn plants are the most toxic and harmful to our pets. 

Here are the main 5 most harmful autumn plants:

1. Acorns and Conkers – If eaten in large quantities by your pups, they can be extremely toxic. The problem with acorns is that they are often consumed by pups who are using them as chew toys. This can lead to them becoming lethargic, losing appetite and vomiting. Watch out for acorns and conkers hiding under piles of leaves. Unripe (green) acorns are the most harmful. 

2. Hydrangeas – The bulbs of these plants are highly toxic to pets, as they contain cyanide. Although serious cases of poisoning are rare they can cause stomach problems, vomiting and intestinal blockages. 

3. Yew Trees – The needles and seeds of a yew tree are extremely poisonous to most animals. Eating just the leaves can lead to dangerous consequences (even leading to death in severe cases). The leaves are easily identifiable, so you should be able to spot them. If you have a pet that likes to run free around your garden, it’s best to avoid planting this. 

4. Horse Chestnut Trees – Be cautious around Horse Chestnut trees from September onwards. The tree bark, leaves and flowers can all be fatal to animals if consumed. It can cause gastrointestinal distress, disorientation, spasms and even death.

5. Autumn Crocuses – These flowers might be outwardly beautiful, but they can be toxic if dogs get too close. If ingested they can cause general gastrointestinal upset including drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea. These flowers also bloom in Spring.

Other Deadly Autumn Plants:

• Amaryllis (Hippeastrum spp): All parts are toxic to cats and dogs, but especially the bulbs. Also present in winter.

• Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum): All parts of the plant are toxic, although the smell is likely to deter dogs and cats.

• Oleander (Nerium oleander): All parts of the plant are toxic. Less than a handful of leaves can be fatal to dogs and cats. Also present in summer.

• Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea): All parts of this plant are poisonous, and even small doses can be fatal to cats and dogs. Also present in spring and summer.