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6 toxic plants to keep away from dogs

6 toxic plants to keep away from dogs

It has become the norm to keep ornamental at home, especially since they beautify the space tremendously. But, if you are a pet parent, you must exercise caution in picking the potted plants you want. While some plants can cause vomiting or dysentery, a few can cause respiratory, digestive, neurological, or cardiac problems, leading to death. If you have become a pet parent recently, here are six plants toxic to dogs to note:

6 plants that dog parents must take note of

Sago palm
Sago palm is a very popular ornamental plant for indoor and outdoor spaces. It is known by many names like coontie palms or cardboard palms and is part of the Cycads group of plants. It contains multiple toxins, including cycasin and BMAA. Every part of the sago palm is toxic for your dogs, and the seeds can be the most dangerous. If a dog ingests even a small amount of any part of a sago palm plant, it can affect its nervous system, liver, or gastrointestinal system. You may see symptoms within 15 minutes or many hours. The most common reaction is gastrointestinal irritation, with initial symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also lead to serious complications like neurological problems, resulting in weakness, seizures, and tremors. If your dog has accidentally ingested any part of this plant, it is imperative to visit the vet immediately and begin an aggressive treatment and decontamination process.

Castor bean plant
The castor bean plant is a pretty-looking wild plant; the oil from its seeds is used as a remedy for constipation. Some also use it as an outdoor decor plant. However, if you are a dog parent, you should avoid having it in your home, as the castor bean is quite toxic to dogs. Dogs tend to get attracted to the pods and relish the bean, which contains ricin, a lethal toxin. You may see vomiting, nausea and diarrhea symptoms within 12 to 48 hours of ingestion. Depending on the number of beans they eat, dogs may also have seizures, go into a coma, or face fatality. Vets provide supportive care by administering intravenous fluids and antibiotics to improve the symptoms as there is no antidote for ricin yet.

Cyclamen
Cyclamen contains saponins; a toxin concentrated in its roots and tubers. If your pup or dog has eaten lots of these parts of the plant, it can lead to severe cardiac problems. Excess saponin can cause abnormal heart rate and rhythm, seizures, and death. If your pet dog has only ingested a little bit, you may notice symptoms like diarrhea, drooling, and vomiting. Take them to a vet at once if you notice any of these symptoms and if you are unsure how much Cyclamen they may have eaten, mention that.

Dumbcane
Dumbcane is a hardy plant whose bright foliage cheers up indoor and outdoor spaces. The leaves contain oxalic acid, needle-shaped oxalate crystals, and asparagine protein. The toxin is more commonly found in the leaves and stems. If your dog has ingested dumbcane, you may notice continuing pawing at the face due to inflammation, restlessness, drooling, loss of appetite and respiratory issues. The toxin can be life-threatening, and if untreated on time, it can lead to death. Dumbcane is toxic to humans and most pets; hence, avoid them or place them in areas where children or pets cannot reach them.

Water hemlock
Water hemlock is one of the most toxic plants in the country and can harm all pets and livestock. It is most commonly found in damp and marshy lands, irrigation channels, and riverbanks. If you live in these areas, ensure that you do not allow your dog to be free near the marshes. Water hemlock contains the toxin cicutoxin, with the roots having the highest concentration of it. The toxins impact the brain and central nervous system. If your dog has ingested it, you will see symptoms like drooling, weakness, nervousness, dilated pupils, breathing difficulties, and cardiac changes. It may also lead to respiratory paralysis, causing death.

Oleander
Oleander is a popular, elegant plant with beautiful flowers. However, it is undoubtedly harmful to your pets. Every part of oleander is dangerous, as it contains a toxic compound called cardiac glycosides, with the roots and seeds having the highest percentage of it. If your dog eats the leaves or the flowers, it can slow down their heart rate and potentially lead to death. Some dogs can also have GI tract problems and hypothermia.

Several times, dogs can also be victims of flea and tick attacks. This makes them prone to itchiness, inflamed skin, rashes, and irritability. Given below are some top prescription options that help manage and further prevent flea, tick, and heartworm infestation in dogs.

BRAVECTO®
BRAVECTO® is one of the leading options to treat tick and flea infestation, and it is effective for 12 weeks. It can be used for topical application or as an orally-ingested option.

Simparica TRIO
Simparica TRIO is a chewable tablet that contains three ingredients proven to offer total protection against ticks and flea infestation, heartworm diseases, roundworms, and hookworms. It is also effective in killing deer ticks that may cause Lyme disease.

Advantix®
Advantix ® is a topical option for dogs that repels and kills multiple parasites like ticks, fleas and their eggs, mosquitos, flies, and lice. You can apply it monthly to protect your dog and puppies (7 months and older) from diseases like heartworms.

For added protection for their dogs, especially in the case of accidents and illnesses, owners must also consider investing in pet insurance. These policies provide coverage for various veterinary costs, allowing for reimbursement and access to the best possible healthcare.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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7 common plants that are dangerous for cats

Cats are naturally curious and tend to grab and play with things they find in their environment. So, they can end up grabbing or even chewing on dangerous plants, which can cause multiple complications and health-related issues. Cat parents should exercise caution when exposing their feline companions to outdoor environments or their own home and garden that can house poisonous plants. Some of the common plants that are toxic to cats are: Amaryllis Amaryllis is a popular indoor and outdoor plant that is grown in pots and containers, making it a popular gift during the holiday season. Cats can be drawn to its vibrant flowers, however, the plant contains toxins like lycorine and phenanthridine alkaloids. While the bulbs have the highest concentration of toxins, the stalks are also poisonous to cats. If ingested, cats can experience symptoms like drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors. They may even seem lazy, lethargic, and show no willingness to eat. Other severe effects include a drop in their blood pressure and seizures. Autumn crocus The autumn crocus contains colchicine and other alkaloids, which can be toxic to many animals, including cats. If cats chew on the flower or seeds of this ornamental plant, they can experience vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. Ingesting it can also lead to gastrointestinal issues, breathing problems, fever, loss of appetite, and even bloody stool. Symptoms may begin to appear shortly after ingesting the plant or days after. Rhododendrons or azaleas Rhododendron is a common shrub with many subspecies, including azaleas. Its beautiful bell-shaped flowers make it a popular choice among gardeners. However, all parts of this shrub are extremely poisonous to cats. The toxicity is caused by grayanotoxins, a component that contains diterpenoid compounds. On ingestion, these toxins attach themselves to the cat’s cells and wreak havoc on their tiny bodies. It impacts the normal functioning of the feline’s internal organs and central nervous system. The damage can extend to the cat’s GI tract and can cause hemorrhage or internal bleeding, pneumonia, and kidney and liver failure. Initial symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, nasal discharge, and drooling. Other severe complications of rhododendron poisoning in cats are blindness and limb paralysis. Castor beans Castor beans are used to produce oil as a natural remedy for constipation, however, these beans can be highly dangerous for pets. The toxin at play here is ricin, present in high amounts in castor beans. This plant can be deadlier than cobra venom to cats. Even a small amount of the toxin can be fatal or can induce symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite, weakness, and tremors. More serious consequences of castor bean poisoning are kidney failure, seizures, and coma. Chrysanthemum This plant is easy to grow, requires minimum maintenance, and comes with beautiful, bright-colored flowers. However, chrysanthemum is off-limits to cats as it contains toxins like lactones, pyrethrins, and sesquiterpene and can cause severe gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested. Initial symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, itching, loss of appetite, skin lesions, or swelling. Cyclamen Cats are drawn to the bright butterfly-shaped flowers of cyclamen (or sowbread plant). It contains toxins known as terpenoid saponins, which get absorbed into the cat’s bloodstream when ingested. Cyclamen poisoning can be fatal and cause irregular heartbeat and seizures. Other complications include gastritis, pain, paralysis, terminal convulsions, and respiratory failure. Initial symptoms include drooling, diarrhea, vomiting, lack of appetite, and roughening of the cat’s coat. Paperwhite Paperwhite, along with other plants of the Narcissus genus such as daffodil and jonquil, contains toxic components like galantamine, calcium oxalate crystals, and narciclasine along with a primary toxin lycorine. Paperwhite plants are poisonous to most animals, and cats may be attracted to the bright flowers or bulbs that are the most toxic part of the plant. Ingestion of this plat can lead to convulsions, increased heart rate, breathing and respiratory problems, and kidney damage in cats. Common initial symptoms include drooling, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach aches. Not just poisonous plants, pets are susceptible to a variety of infections, diseases, and infestations which can lead to serious health complications. Here are a few popular treatment options that can keep them safe: Bravecto for cats This topical solution for cats can provide 2-month protection from fleas, ticks, and also heartworm, which is an infection carried by mosquitoes. Bravecto Plus can also treat other infections such as intestinal roundworm and hookworm. A single dose every two months can protect your cat from a host of deadly infections caused by parasites. Simparica This is a fast-acting chewable treatment option for dogs and is effective in treating flea and tick infestation in dogs over six months. Simparica is approved for use in dogs, and a veterinarian doctor should be consulted before using this for cats. Advantix This is a flea and tick treatment suitable for dogs. Advantix or K9 Advantix II can also repel mosquitos, protecting dogs from infections like heartworm. Cats can be sensitive to the product’s active ingredients, so a vet should be consulted before opting for this product. In fact, pet parents that have both cats and dogs in the house should consult a vet before using it for their dogs. The same company offers another product called Advantage, which is considered to be safe for cats.

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