Is Geranium Plant Safe for My Pets?

Geraniums are a popular plant that is grown in gardens worldwide. They come in different colors and have a lovely scent, making them an attractive choice for many gardeners. However, pet owners often wonder if their furry friends can safely coexist with geraniums. In this article, we will explore whether geraniums are safe for pets.

What is a Geranium Plant?

Geraniums are flowering plants belonging to the genus Pelargonium. They are native to South Africa and have been cultivated since the 17th century. Geraniums are often grown as ornamental plants in gardens and can be found in a variety of colors, including pink, red, purple, and white.

Are Geraniums Toxic to Pets?

While geraniums are not toxic to pets, they do contain substances that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested. The leaves and stems of geranium plants contain essential oils that can irritate the digestive tract. If your pet ingests a small amount of geranium foliage, they may experience vomiting or diarrhea.

It’s important to note that while geraniums are generally safe for pets, some animals may have an allergic reaction to the plant. Signs of an allergic reaction include itching, swelling, and redness around the mouth or on the skin.

How to Keep Pets Safe Around Geraniums

To keep your pets safe around geraniums, you can take several precautions:

• Place your geranium plants out of reach of your pets. This can be achieved by placing them on a high shelf or hanging them from a hook.
• Train your pets not to chew on plants. You can discourage your pets from chewing on plants by providing them with plenty of chew toys and bones.
• Supervise your pets when they are outside. If you have outdoor geranium plants, make sure you keep an eye on your pets to ensure they don’t eat or chew on the foliage.

Other Pet-Safe Plants

If you’re looking for other pet-safe plants to add to your garden, consider the following:

• Spider Plant – These plants are non-toxic and are great for removing toxins from the air.
• African Violet – These plants are non-toxic and come in a variety of colors.
• Bamboo Palm – These plants are non-toxic and can grow up to 12 feet tall.

FAQ

Can cats eat geraniums?

While geraniums are not toxic to cats, they can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested. It’s best to keep your geranium plants out of reach of your cats.

Can dogs eat geraniums?

Geraniums are not toxic to dogs, but they can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested. It’s best to keep your geranium plants out of reach of your dogs.

Are all geranium varieties safe for pets?

All geranium varieties are safe for pets, but they do contain substances that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested. It’s best to keep your geranium plants out of reach of your pets.

What should I do if my pet eats geranium leaves?

If your pet eats geranium leaves and experiences vomiting or diarrhea, contact your veterinarian immediately. They will be able to provide advice on how to manage your pet’s symptoms.