Hydrangeas are lovely plants with colorful flowers. They are common in gardens. But are they safe for pets and children? Hydrangeas have toxins that can harm humans, dogs, and cats. Luckily, serious harm is rare.
Hydrangeas change color depending on soil. Red flowers grow in neutral or basic soil, while blue or purple flowers grow in acidic soil. This adds to the beauty of the plant.
Let’s look at the risks of hydrangeas and how to keep everyone safe.
Are Hydrangeas Poisonous to People
Hydrangeas have amygdalin, a compound that can release cyanide when eaten. Cyanide is harmful. But to get seriously sick, you would have to eat a lot of hydrangea. Reactions are rare, but it’s a good idea to keep hydrangeas away from children.
Dried hydrangeas are more toxic than fresh ones, so keep them out of reach.
Signs of hydrangea poisoning in people include:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Bloody diarrhea
- Skin irritation
- In severe cases: dizziness, trouble breathing, or even coma
Are Hydrangeas Poisonous to Dogs
Dogs can get sick from hydrangeas. The leaves and flowers are the most toxic parts.
Symptoms in dogs include:
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Fast heartbeat or fever
- Drooling
- Rapid breathing
- Muscle spasms
- Red gums turning blue
If your dog eats hydrangea, call the vet.
Are Hydrangeas Poisonous to Cats
Cats are also at risk. All parts of the plant are toxic.
Symptoms in cats include:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Skin irritation
- Trouble breathing
- Seizures or coma
If your cat eats hydrangea, contact the vet.
Treating Hydrangea Poisoning
There’s no cure for hydrangea poisoning. Treatment helps with symptoms.
Treatment includes:
- Inducing vomiting (done by a vet)
- Giving fluids to prevent dehydration
- Medications for symptoms
- Monitoring in severe cases
What to Do If You Suspect Poisoning
If someone or a pet eats hydrangea, get help right away.
For people:
- Call your doctor or poison control.
- Tell them what was eaten, how much, and when.
For pets:
- Call your vet or animal poison control.
- Tell them what was eaten, how much, and when.
- Bring a sample of the plant if you can.
Preventing Poisoning
To stay safe, follow these tips:
- Plant hydrangeas in places pets and kids can’t reach.
- Keep plants in rooms that are off-limits.
- Train pets not to chew on plants.
- Use non-toxic plants in your home and garden.
Conclusion
Hydrangeas are pretty, but they can be harmful. Serious reactions are rare. With a few safety tips, you can enjoy hydrangeas without worry. Keep them away from children and pets, and get help right away if poisoning happens.