Plant safety for pets and children

What "mildly toxic" and "highly toxic" mean

• Mildly toxic. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, or skin sensitivity. Symptoms are usually self-limiting but uncomfortable. Examples include calcium-oxalate plants like Monstera, Philodendron, and Pothos.
• Highly toxic. Ingestion can cause severe symptoms — seizures, kidney failure, cardiac issues — and may be fatal without prompt veterinary or medical care. Examples include Lily species (cats), Sago Palm (dogs), Oleander, and Dieffenbachia.

If you suspect ingestion

1. Remove any plant material from the mouth and rinse with water. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
2. Note the plant name (scientific or common), the time of ingestion, and an estimate of how much was consumed.
3. Call poison control:
   • Netherlands — Nationaal Vergiftigingen Informatie Centrum: 030 274 8888 (24/7, professional callers; for the public the helpline at the website routes to a doctor).
   • United States — ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 1-888-426-4435 (24/7; consultation fee may apply).
4. For dogs/cats, also consider Pet Poison Helpline: 1-855-764-7661.

Where Plant Passport gets its data

Toxicity classifications follow standard horticultural references and public-health sources. The toxicity badges and disclaimers on plant pages are informational. They do not replace veterinary or medical advice. If a plant is in your home and your circumstances make you uncertain, please consult a professional.