Is Ivy Poisonous to Pets?

Description

• English ivy (Hedera helix) is an evergreen vine that spreads as a ground cover and scales the walls of buildings. Cold-hardy to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zone 5, this ivy is widespread in landscapes. The leaves are alternate and have three lobes. Mature plants bear green-white flowers that develop into bluish berries. In some regions, English ivy is invasive, escaping gardens and growing in disturbed areas.

Poisonous Parts

• The leaves and berries of English ivy are toxic to dogs, cats and horses. According to Purdue University, berries may also be toxic to birds. However, starlings, pigeons, robins and other birds consume the berries and spread seeds. The ivy's leaves are more toxic than the fruit, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Symptoms

• If your pet eats foliage or fruit of English ivy, call a veterinarian right away. Signs of toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation and breathing trouble. To prevent poisoning, keep indoor ivy where a pet can't reach it and keep an eye on what your pet tastes in the garden.

Chemistry

• Triterpenoid saponin is the toxic component in the foliage and berries of English ivy. It is a type of terpene, which is a hydrocarbon found in essential plant oils. This component is found in many types of plants, such as oats, legumes and ginseng. Other plants that contain terpenes include lantana, mountain laurel and rhododendron.