Common UK Plants and Fungi That Can Be Dangerous for Dogs and Cats

Many of the plants we love in UK gardens, homes and parks can be harmful to pets. Some cause only a mild upset stomach, while others can lead to far more serious problems. Cats are especially vulnerable to true lilies, which can cause kidney failure, and both dogs and cats can run into trouble with bulbs, berries, leaves, sap, seeds and wild fungi. If you think your pet may have eaten a dangerous plant or mushroom, it’s best to contact your vet straight away rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

This guide covers common UK plants poisonous to dogs and cats, including garden plants, houseplants, berries, bulbs and wild fungi. This isn’t a complete list, but it covers a lot of the more common UK plants with risks highlighted by Blue Cross and PDSA.

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Why pet owners should be careful

Plant toxicity can be surprisingly unpredictable. Not all pets react in the same way, and not every part of every plant is equally dangerous. In many cases, the bulbs, berries, seeds or sap are more toxic than the leaves or stems. PDSA also notes that some plants irritate the skin or mouth rather than being dangerous only when swallowed. Wild mushrooms are another risk because they can be very hard to identify safely, so the safest approach is to avoid them completely.

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Symptoms of plant or fungi poisoning in dogs and cats

Common signs can include:

• low energy or unusual tiredness
• vomiting
• diarrhoea
• drooling excessively
• not eating
• drinking or peeing more
• pale gums
• rashes or red skin
• ulcers or swelling in the mouth
• twitching, tremors or seizures
• breathing difficulties
• collapse

If your pet is showing severe symptoms such as breathing trouble, seizures, collapse, or sudden weakness, contact a vet urgently. PDSA and Blue Cross both advise getting veterinary advice even if you didn’t actually see your pet eat the plant, because symptoms may be the first clue that something is wrong. https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/other-veterinary-advice/first-aid-for-collapsed-pets

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Important warning for cat owners: lilies

True lilies (Lilium species) and day lilies (Hemerocallis species) are among the most dangerous plants for cats. Every part of the plant should be treated as unsafe, including the petals, leaves, stems, pollen and even water from a vase. Cats may be exposed by chewing the plant, brushing against pollen and then grooming it from their fur, or drinking from a vase. If you think your cat has been near, licked, chewed or eaten any part of a lily, contact your vet immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.

That is clear, practical and not too close to the wording from Blue Cross or PDSA.

Symptoms a cat might show after lily exposure

You could add this under the paragraph:

Possible symptoms of lily poisoning in cats can include vomiting, drooling, loss of appetite, tiredness, weakness, increased thirst, changes in urination, dehydration, tremors, seizures or collapse. Early signs may appear within hours, while signs of kidney damage can develop later, so urgent veterinary advice is needed even if your cat seems normal at first.

PDSA says lily exposure can cause kidney damage in cats, which can lead to kidney failure and death if untreated, while the FDA notes early signs can include decreased activity, drooling, vomiting and loss of appetite, with signs of kidney damage developing later.

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Winter Plants that can be dangerous for Dog and Cats

Winter can bring extra plant hazards into the home and garden, especially around Christmas. Festive plants, berries, bulbs and bouquets may look harmless, but some can cause stomach upsets, mouth irritation or more serious symptoms in dogs and cats. If you think your pet has eaten a poisonous plant, it is always best to contact your vet for advice rather than waiting to see what happens. PDSA advises calling your vet straight away if you see your pet eating a potentially dangerous plant.

Common winter plants to keep away from pets

• Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) — the leaves and stems can irritate the mouth and stomach if chewed or eaten.
• Holly (Ilex aquifolium) — the berries are the main concern, while the prickly leaves may also irritate the mouth.
• Mistletoe (Viscum album) — the berries are especially risky, but it is safest to keep the whole plant away from pets.
• Amaryllis (Hippeastrum species) — the bulb is usually the most dangerous part, although flowers and leaves can also cause problems.
• Paperwhite narcissus (Narcissus papyraceus) — the bulb is the main danger and may cause stomach upset if eaten.
• Cyclamen (Cyclamen species) — the underground tuber/root is the most concerning part, especially if a pet digs it up or chews it.
• Ivy (Hedera helix) — the leaves and stems can cause stomach upset and may irritate the skin or mouth.
• Christmas rose (Helleborus niger) — all parts of the plant should be treated as unsafe, including leaves, stems, roots and flowers.

Symptoms may not appear straight away, so if you know or suspect your pet has eaten part of a risky plant, call your vet for advice even if they currently seem fine. PDSA lists symptoms of plant poisoning including vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, tremors, seizures, breathing difficulty and collapse.

Watch out for festive bouquets and decorations

It is not just potted plants that can be risky. Wreaths, table decorations, cut flowers, berries and fallen leaves can all tempt curious pets. Cats may brush against flowers and later groom pollen from their fur, while dogs may chew berries, bulbs or stems. PDSA notes that seeds, bulbs and berries can often be more toxic than stems, and that pets may dig up bulbs from underground.

How to reduce the risk

Keep festive plants and bouquets out of reach, avoid leaving fallen berries or leaves on the floor, and do not let pets drink from vases or plant saucers. If you are unsure whether a plant is safe, place it somewhere your pet cannot access or choose a pet-safe alternative.

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Spring bulbs and flowers to watch out for

Spring gardens can look beautiful, but many popular spring bulbs and flowers can be risky for dogs and cats. Pets may dig up bulbs, chew leaves or nibble fallen flowers, especially in gardens, parks and planted borders. Bulbs are often the biggest concern because they can be more concentrated than the visible parts of the plant. Even if a plant only causes mild stomach upset in some pets, others may react more seriously, so it is safest to keep pets away from spring plants you are unsure about.

Common spring hazards:

• Daffodils (Narcissus species) — the bulb is the main concern, although flowers, leaves and stems can also cause stomach upset if eaten.
• Tulips (Tulipa species) — the bulb is usually the most dangerous part, especially if a dog digs it up or chews it.
• Hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis) — the bulb is the highest-risk part, but the whole plant should be kept away from pets.
• Snowdrops (Galanthus species) — bulbs are the main concern, but leaves and flowers may also cause problems if eaten.
• Crocuses (Crocus species) — the bulb-like corm is the part most likely to cause issues if chewed or swallowed.
• Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) – especially important because this one can be much more dangerous, all parts should be treated as dangerous, with the bulb and seeds being especially concerning.
• Bluebells (Hyacinthoides species) — all parts can be unsafe, including the bulb, leaves and flowers.
• Iris and gladioli (Iridaceae) — the bulbs, rhizomes or corms are usually the biggest concern if dug up or chewed.
• Amaryllis (Hippeastrum species) — the bulb is usually the most dangerous part, although leaves and flowers can also cause symptoms.
• Garden star-of-Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) — all parts should be treated as unsafe, especially the bulb.

These plants may cause stomach upset, drooling and mouth irritation, but some can be much more serious. PDSA specifically lists autumn crocus among the more dangerous plants for pets, and Blue Cross includes several of the others in its dog and cat plant guidance.

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Ornamental garden plants, shrubs and hedging plants

Ornamental garden plants, shrubs and hedging plants are easy to overlook because many are simply part of everyday gardens, driveways, borders and public spaces. However, some can be risky if pets chew the leaves, flowers, berries, seeds or cut stems. Dogs may investigate hedge cuttings or fallen berries, while cats may brush against plants or nibble leaves. Extra care is needed after pruning, because fresh cuttings from plants such as laurel, yew or holly may end up on the ground where pets can reach them.

Common shrubs and garden plants to be cautious with:

• Azalea / rhododendron (Rhododendron species) — leaves, flowers and nectar can all be risky if eaten.
• Foxglove (Digitalis species) — all parts of the plant should be treated as dangerous, especially leaves and flowers.
• Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) — flowers, leaves, stems and berries can all be harmful.
• Oleander (Nerium oleander) — all parts are dangerous, including leaves, flowers, stems and cuttings.
• Laburnum (Laburnum anagyroides / Cytisus alpinus as listed by PDSA) — the seeds and pods are especially concerning, but the whole plant should be kept away from pets.
• Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster species) — berries are the main concern because they can be tempting to chew.
• Pieris (Pieris species) — leaves and flowers can be harmful if eaten.
• Geranium / pelargonium (Pelargonium species) — leaves and stems may cause stomach upset or skin irritation.
• Common poppy (Papaver rhoeas) — flowers, leaves and seed heads should be treated with caution.
• Larkspur / delphinium (Delphinium species) — all parts can be unsafe, especially young growth and seeds.
• Deadly nighshade (Atropa belladonna) — berries are especially dangerous, but all parts of the plant should be avoided.
• Woody Nightshade (Solanum dulcamara) — berries are the main concern, although leaves and stems can also be harmful.
• Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) — all parts should be treated as unsafe, whether fresh or dried.
• Laurel, including cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus and other laurels) — leaves, berries and hedge cuttings should be kept away from pets.
• Heavenly bamboo (Nandina domestica) — berries are the main concern, but it is safest to avoid the whole plant.
• Holly (Ilex species) — berries are the main risk, while the prickly leaves can irritate the mouth.
• Ivy (Hedera species) — leaves and stems may irritate the mouth, skin or stomach.
• Mistletoe (Viscum album) — berries are especially risky, but leaves and stems should also be kept away from pets.
• Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) — berries are the part most likely to attract pets.
• Yew (Taxus baccata and related species) — all parts are highly dangerous, especially the needles and seeds inside the red berries.
• Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) — the sap is the main danger and can burn or blister skin, especially on less furry areas.

Some ornamental plants are risky because of their leaves, flowers or berries, while hedging plants can also become a problem when cuttings are left on the ground. Giant hogweed deserves special care because its sap can burn or blister skin, including on thinner-furred areas such as the ears, belly and around the mouth. If your pet chews, licks or brushes against a plant you are unsure about, contact your vet for advice.

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Trees, berries, seeds and garden produce

Some plant hazards come from trees, hedges and edible garden plants rather than flowers. Acorns, conkers, berries, leaves, stems, unripe fruit and plant bulbs can all cause problems if chewed or swallowed. Dogs may be especially tempted by fallen seeds, berries or windfall fruit during walks or in the garden, while curious cats may nibble leaves or brush against plants. Larger items such as conkers and acorns may also pose a choking or blockage risk, so it is safest to keep pets away from anything you cannot confidently identify as safe.

Common outdoor risks include:

• Horse chestnut / conkers (Aesculus hippocastanum) — conkers are the main concern and may also cause a blockage if swallowed whole.
• Oak / acorns (Quercus species) — acorns and young oak leaves are the parts pets are most likely to chew or swallow.
• Onion plant (Allium cepa) — bulbs, leaves and stems can all be harmful, so keep pets away from the whole plant.
• Garlic plant (Allium sativum) — the bulb is the main concern, but the leaves and stems should also be avoided.
• Potato plants (Solanum tuberosum) — leaves, stems, green potatoes and sprouting potatoes are the riskiest parts.
• Tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum) — leaves, stems and unripe green tomatoes are the main parts to keep pets away from.
• Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum) — the leaves are the main danger and should not be eaten by pets.
• Grapevines / grapes (Vitis vinifera) — grapes, raisins and vine fruit are the key concern, especially for dogs.
• Cabbage palms / cordyline (Cordyline australis) — leaves and stems may cause problems if chewed or eaten.
• Holly berries (Ilex aquifolium) — berries are the main risk, while prickly leaves can irritate the mouth.
• Mistletoe berries (Viscum album) — berries are especially risky, but the whole plant should be kept away from pets.
• Rowan berries (Sorbus aucuparia) — the berries are the part most likely to attract curious pets.

PDSA highlights that onions and garlic are dangerous at all stages, while tomato plants, potato plants, rhubarb leaves, acorns and conkers can also cause problems. Blue Cross also notes conkers and acorns as common seasonal risks for dogs, including the risk of gut blockage if swallowed.

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Houseplants and cut flowers

Indoor plants can be easy to overlook because they feel “safe” inside the home, but many common houseplants and bouquets can still be risky for dogs and cats. Pets may chew leaves, dig in plant pots, drink from the vase water, or brush against flowers and later groom pollen from their coat. This is especially important with true lilies, which are highly dangerous to cats even in small amounts. If you are unsure whether a plant is safe, it is best to keep it well out of reach or choose a pet-safe alternative.

Houseplants and indoor favourites to be careful with:

• Lilies (Lilium species) — all parts are dangerous to cats, including petals, leaves, stems, pollen and vase water.
• Peace lily (Spathiphyllum) — leaves, stems and flowers can irritate the mouth and stomach if chewed.
• Dumbcane / Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia species) — leaves and stems can cause strong mouth irritation, drooling and discomfort.
• Cordyline (Cordyline species) — leaves are the main concern if chewed or eaten.
• Dracaena / dragon tree (Dracaena species) — leaves and stems may cause stomach upset if eaten.
• Philodendron (Philodendron species) — leaves and stems can irritate the mouth and digestive system.
• Yucca (Yucca species) — leaves and stems may cause problems if chewed or swallowed.
• Sago palm (Cycas revoluta) — all parts should be treated as dangerous, especially the seeds and leaves.
• Aloe vera (Aloe vera) — the inner gel is often used for humans, but the outer leaf and plant material can upset pets if eaten.
• Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) — leaves and stems can irritate the mouth and stomach.
• Amaryllis (Hippeastrum species) — the bulb is the main danger, although leaves and flowers can also cause symptoms.
• Cyclamen (Cyclamen species) — the underground tuber/root is the most concerning part.
• Oleander (Nerium oleander) — all parts are dangerous, including leaves, flowers, stems and cuttings.
• Foxglove (Digitalis species) — all parts should be treated as unsafe, especially leaves and flowers.
• Tulips (Tulipa species) — bulbs are the main concern, but leaves and flowers can also cause symptoms.
• Lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) — flowers, leaves, stems and berries can all be harmful.

For cats, Blue Cross specifically lists true lilies and day lilies as the major emergency, and also includes plants such as cordyline, dracaena, cyclamen, foxglove, oleander, peace lily, poinsettia, tulips and yucca among the plants that can cause problems.

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Wild fungi and mushrooms in the UK

Wild mushrooms and toadstools are a concern for dog and cat owners because many species are difficult to identify safely. Some fungi may only cause stomach upset, but others can lead to serious symptoms, including tremors, seizures, abnormal heart rhythm, organ damage or collapse. Dogs are often at higher risk because they may sniff, chew or eat mushrooms while walking in woodland, parks, grass verges or damp garden areas. Because identification is so difficult, the safest approach is to treat any wild mushroom or toadstool as potentially unsafe and keep pets away from it.

Wild fungi best treated as dangerous:

• Death cap (Amanita phalloides) — all parts should be treated as dangerous, and even small amounts may be serious.
• Deadly webcap (Cortinarius rubellus) — the whole fungus should be avoided, especially the cap and stem.
• Destroying angel (Amanita virosa) — all parts are dangerous and should never be allowed near pets.
• Funeral bell (Galerina marginata) — the whole mushroom should be treated as unsafe.
• Fool’s funnel (Clitocybe rivulosa) — the cap, gills and stem can all be risky if eaten.
• Panther cap (Amanita pantherina) — all parts should be avoided, including the cap, stem and any broken pieces.
• Angel’s wings (Pleurocybella porrigens) — the whole fungus should be treated with caution and kept away from pets.

Vets now says these are among the most poisonous mushrooms found in the UK. Because safe identification is difficult, a sensible message for readers is: if it’s a wild mushroom or toadstool, assume it may be unsafe and keep your dog or cat away from it.

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What should you do if your pet has eaten a plant or fungus?

If you think your dog or cat has chewed, licked or swallowed a plant, flower, berry, bulb or wild mushroom, do not wait for symptoms to appear. Some poisons can act quickly, while others may cause problems later. PDSA advises contacting your vet straight away if you suspect your pet has eaten something they should not have.

What to do straight away:

1. Move your pet away from the plant, berries, bulb or mushroom.
2. Remove any remaining pieces from their reach.
3. Take a clear photo of the plant or fungus if it is safe to do so as this could be very helpful for those treating your pet.
4. Keep a sample in a bag or container if possible, but only if it is safe.
5. Call your vet or an emergency vet immediately for advice.
6. Do not try home treatments or make your pet sick unless a vet tells you to.

If it is outside your vet’s normal opening hours, call their usual number first, as most practices give details for their out-of-hours emergency service. You can also contact Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000, a UK 24-hour triage service run by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service for pet owners worried about possible poisoning.

For urgent treatment, contact your own vet or your nearest emergency vet clinic. Vets Now also advises calling your vet or nearest emergency clinic immediately if you are worried your pet has been poisoned.

Important: email or online contact forms are not suitable for poisoning emergencies. Animal PoisonLine states that poisoning advice cannot be given through their feedback/contact page and that worried owners should call directly.

Guide only — not a diagnosis. If in doubt, call a vet. It is always better to ask early than wait and risk symptoms becoming more serious.

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Can you make your garden more pet-friendly?

Yes. If you have pets, it’s wise to avoid planting known toxic species where possible, keep bulbs and berries out of reach, clear up hedge cuttings, and monitor pets in the garden. Blue Cross suggests that for dogs, growing your own vegetables can be a better option than letting them chew random plants, while cats may enjoy safe options such as catnip or catmint rather than access to potentially harmful plants.

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Final thoughts

Most pets won’t eat large amounts of plants, but curious dogs, puppies, outdoor cats and nibbling kittens can still get into trouble. The safest approach is to learn the main risks, especially seasonal bulbs, berries, common houseplants and wild mushrooms. And because no list is ever complete, it’s best to see this as a guide rather than a full database. If in doubt, contact your vet promptly.

For everyday well-being, you can browse our range of dog and cat supplements. Please note, supplements are not a treatment for poisoning — contact your vet urgently if your pet may have eaten a toxic plant or fungus. https://pet-protection.org/

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