Geraniums & Pet Safety

Lovely red and white geraniums.

Geraniums make an beautiful addition to any flower garden, and their allure occasionally extends to household pets. Knowing what precautions to take around this common household plant can assist should your pet ingest some of these blooms.

Identification

Geranium is the common name for the Pelargonium genus of flowers. Geraniums come in a variety of flowers and sizes. The word "Perlagonium" comes from the Greek word for "stork," due to the fact that part of the flower is said to resemble a stork's bill.

Warning

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Poison Control Center lists geraniums as being toxic to both dogs and cats.

Significance

The toxic principles of geranium plants are gerinol and linalool. Both of these oils are common ingredients in pesticides and bug repellents.

Effects

Enteric distress, vomiting, refusal to eat and depression are seen in animals who have ingested geraniums. Rare side effects include seizure and death. When in contact with the skin, geraniums can cause a mild dermatological irritation.

Solution

If you feel your cat or dog has eaten geraniums, seek veterinary care immediately. If your pet suffers a rash or itching from rubbing against geranium plants, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.

References

• ASPCA: Geranium
• "Handbook of Poisoning in Dogs and Cats"; Alexander Campbell, Michael Chapman; 2000"
• "Taylor's Encyclopedia of Garden Plants: The Most Authoritative Guide to the Best Flowers, Trees, and Shrubs for North American Gardens;" Frances Tenenbaum; 2003

Resources

• The ASPCA Poison Control Center Website