Ask the Expert: Poison Control

Have you heard that a specific product or substance could be dangerous to your pets? Our experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center set the record straight on a variety of substances, from cleaning products to popular houseplants.

As the premier animal poison control center in North America, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think that your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, make the call that can make all the difference: (888) 426-4435. A $60 consultation fee may be applied to your credit card.

This Week's Questions:

I haven't been able to find much information on the following plants and trees: Tasmanian Tree Fern (Dicksonia Antarctica), Peter Pan (Agapanthus Africanus), Rotundiloba (Liquidambar Styraciflua), and European White Birch (Betula Pendula). Are any of them toxic to pets?

—Alisa

Dear Alisa,

With the exception of producing mild stomach irritation, none of the plants you've listed are known to pose a serious toxic risk to animals. As with all plants, however, it’s always a good idea to discourage your pet from nibbling on them to avoid an upset stomach.

Is the Peruvian Lily (or Lily of the Incas) toxic to cats?

—Elizabeth

Dear Elizabeth,

Alstroemeria species—the botanical name for Peruvian Lily—are members of the Tulipa family, and contain a substance called tulipalin A. This substance can produce gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting and diarrhea, if ingested in large amounts, so it’s a good idea to keep the plant well out of your cat’s reach.

Do you have any information about Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata)? In particular, is it toxic to dogs?

—Bryan

Dear Bryan,

Golden Rain Tree—part of the Sapindaceae (or soapberry) family of plants—is not known to be toxic to pets, but it may cause gastrointestinal irritation if ingested. Therefore, while we wouldn't expect a serious or life-threatening situation, it's still a good idea to discourage your dog from munching on parts of the plant.