What plants are dangerous for mice? - briefly
Plants such as lilies, oleander, foxglove, rhododendron, and nightshade contain toxins that can be fatal to mice. Keep these species out of their environment and do not use them as food sources.
What plants are dangerous for mice? - in detail
Mice are vulnerable to a variety of common garden and indoor plants that contain toxic chemicals. Ingestion or prolonged exposure can lead to gastrointestinal distress, neurological impairment, organ failure, or death. The most hazardous species include:
- Oleander (Nerium oleander) – cardiac glycosides cause arrhythmias and severe vomiting.
- Azaleas and Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.) – grayanotoxins provoke salivation, weakness, and potentially fatal cardiac effects.
- Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) – cardiac glycosides similar to oleander produce nausea, tremors, and lethal heart rhythm disturbances.
- Daffodil (Narcissus spp.) – lycorine irritates the gastrointestinal tract, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Tulip (Tulipa spp.) – tulip bulbs contain tulipalin A, a potent irritant causing severe gastroenteritis.
- Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) – digitalis glycosides affect cardiac muscle, resulting in bradycardia, arrhythmias, and possible fatality.
- Castor Bean (Ricinus communis) – ricin is a highly lethal protein toxin; even small amounts cause severe abdominal pain, organ damage, and death.
- Nightshade family (Solanaceae), especially Belladonna (Atropa belladonna) and Potato leaves (Solanum tuberosum) – tropane alkaloids produce delirium, hyperthermia, and respiratory failure.
- Yew (Taxus spp.) – taxine alkaloids depress the heart, causing sudden collapse and fatal cardiac arrest.
- Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta) – cycasin leads to liver failure and neurological symptoms such as seizures.
Symptoms typically appear within minutes to several hours after consumption. Early signs include drooling, pawing at the mouth, rapid breathing, and loss of coordination. Progression may involve convulsions, severe diarrhea, hemorrhage, or cardiac abnormalities. Prompt veterinary intervention is essential; treatment often involves activated charcoal, supportive fluid therapy, and specific antidotes when available.
Preventive measures consist of removing toxic plants from environments where mice are present, securing compost and garden waste, and monitoring for accidental ingestion. Regular inspection of indoor pots and outdoor beds reduces the risk of exposure. If a mouse is suspected of having eaten a poisonous plant, immediate consultation with a veterinarian is the safest course of action.