Birds can be poisoned by a number of common plants, both indoor and outdoor. While many plants are harmless, there are some that can cause serious illness or even death if ingested by birds. As bird owners, it is important to be aware of plants that are toxic to our feathered friends and remove them from areas accessible to birds.
Why are some plants poisonous to birds?
Plants contain a variety of chemical compounds that help them survive and defend against predators. Some of these compounds, however, can be toxic to animals if ingested. Birds are particularly susceptible to plant toxins because of their small size.
Toxic compounds found in plants may cause problems ranging from gastrointestinal upset to neurological impairment or death in birds. Some of the most dangerous toxins for birds include alkaloids, glycosides, oxalates, phytotoxins, and cyanogens.
Common houseplants that are poisonous to birds
Many popular houseplants are actually quite dangerous for pet birds. Some houseplants to avoid keeping in areas accessible to birds include:
- Aloe vera – diarrhoea, tremors, weakness
- Azalea – nausea, weakness, paralysis, coma
- Castor bean – burning of throat, ulceration of mouth, diarrhoea, dehydration
- Cyclamen – heart arrhythmias, seizures, liver damage, death
- Dieffenbachia (dumb cane) – intense burning, swelling of throat, loss of speech
- English ivy – diarrhoea, hyperactivity, breathing difficulty
- Kalanchoe – diarrhoea, abnormal heart rhythm, weakness
- Lily – kidney failure, death
- Mistletoe – gastrointestinal distress, low blood pressure, collapse
- Oleander – cardiac toxicity, arrhythmias, death
- Philodendron – painful swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat
- Pothos – painful swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat
- Sago palm – seizures, liver failure, death
- Tulip/narcissus bulbs – intense gastrointestinal irritation, convulsions, death
Outdoor plants that are toxic for birds
In addition to houseplants, there are many common outdoor plants and trees that can pose a risk to outdoor birds who ingest parts of them. Some of the most hazardous include:
- Azalea
- Buttercup
- Cherry – wilting, gasping, weakness, death
- Chrysanthemum
- Daffodil
- Deadly nightshade – confusion, hallucinations, delirium
- Foxglove – vomiting, diarrhea, heart problems, death
- Hyacinth
- Hydrangea
- Iris
- Ivy
- Jimsonweed – confusion, delirium, respiratory failure
- Lantana – liver damage
- Larkspur
- Lily of the valley – abdominal pain, vomiting, slowed heart rate
- Lupine
- Monkshood – paralysis, convulsions, death
- Morning glory
- Nightshade
- Oleander
- Rhododendron
- Rhubarb leaves – kidney failure, coma, death
- Sago palm
- Tobacco – vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, death
- Wisteria – gastrointestinal distress, weakness, collapse
- Yew – tremors, collapse, death
Parts of plants that are most toxic
While the entire plant may be poisonous, the most toxic parts that pose the greatest risk to birds include:
- Seeds
- Fruit
- Bulbs
- Berries
- Leaves
- Stems
- Roots
Birds tend to be attracted to the bright colors and textures of these parts of plants. It’s important not to allow birds access.
Signs of plant poisoning in birds
If a bird ingests a toxic plant, it may show various signs and symptoms including:
- Vomiting/diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy/weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Muscle tremors/seizures
- Drooling/excess salivation
- Swelling of tongue or throat
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Dilated pupils
- Disorientation/stupor
- Collapse/death
Plant poisoning should be treated as a medical emergency. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for the best chance of recovery.
Preventing plant poisoning in pet birds
The best way to protect birds from toxic plants is through prevention:
- Identify and remove any poisonous plants from the bird’s environment.
- Don’t allow outdoor birds to graze in yards unless you are certain no toxic plants are present.
- Place houseplants out of the bird’s reach.
- Avoid using branches, leaves or seeds from unknown plants in the bird’s cage.
- Keep dried or artificial flowers and houseplants out of the bird’s reach as these can also pose a risk if ingested.
- Ensure the bird has plenty of safe toys, food, and approved vegetation to nibble on so it’s less inclined to eat houseplants.
- Trim plants to prevent access to toxic leaves or berries.
Taking proper precautions can help ensure plant poisoning never threatens your beloved bird’s health. When in doubt, consult reputable online resources or an avian veterinarian about any plants you plan to have in areas accessible to your pet bird.
Conclusion
Many common plants, both indoor and outdoor varieties, can be highly toxic for birds. Due to their small size and sensitive metabolisms, birds are at risk of becoming very ill or dying if they ingest poisonous parts of plants. By removing hazardous plants from the bird’s environment and restricting access to those that cannot be removed, bird owners can greatly reduce the chances of accidental poisoning.
Being aware of the most dangerous plant species, the parts that pose the greatest threat, and early signs of poisoning can help bird lovers respond quickly and appropriately. When it comes to protecting our feathered friends, knowledge about poisonous plants is one of the best remedies.