June 7, 2025
From bright bedding plants to shady garden shrubs, summer blooms can be beautiful, but not all are safe for pets. So, what can you plant with peace of mind around dogs, cats and rabbits in London?
Keep reading to find out! Our team at Bayswater Vets have also pulled together a guide on dangerous plants to help you before you start planting your garden – download our guide now. If you are concerned your pet may have ingested something poisonous, call us on 020 7229 2040.
Download our dangerous plants list
Not all plants pose a risk
While it’s easy to focus on the dangerous ones, it’s good to know there are plenty of pet-friendly plants you can enjoy. If your pets are prone to nibbling, choose safe species for your London garden that won’t cause problems if chewed or accidentally ingested.
Safe summer picks for pets
Recommended by our team at Bayswater Vets, here are a few commonly grown garden plants that are non-toxic to dogs, cats, and rabbits:
- Sunflowers – bright, bee-friendly, and safe for all three species
- Snapdragons – colourful and harmless
- Camellias – non-toxic and evergreen
- Roses – classic, safe, and scent-filled (watch for thorns!)
- Marigolds (Calendula officinalis) – the pot marigold is fine; French or African marigolds are best avoided
- Lavender – safe in small amounts; overexposure can cause mild tummy upsets if pets eat a lot
Herbs that are both pretty and pet-safe
Many herbs are useful to grow and safe around pets in Bayswater. Try:
- Basil
- Coriander
- Rosemary
- Thyme
- Dill
Bayswater Vets’ team advise that rabbits especially may enjoy a few fresh herb sprigs as part of their regular diet.
Always double-check before planting
Some popular summer plants, including lilies, foxgloves and hydrangeas, can be highly toxic. Even common garden plants around London that seem harmless can cause serious symptoms in pets. Our vets at Bayswater Vets advise to always check plant labels and cross-reference with a reliable pet-safe list before planting – like our dangerous plants guide.
Watch where they wander
Even safe plants can cause mild stomach upsets if eaten in large quantities. It’s also worth noting that rabbits are natural foragers and may eat a wide range of garden plants, so supervise free-roaming time or limit access with pet-safe fencing.
Know the signs of trouble
If you’re unsure whether your pet has eaten something safe, look for:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Lethargy or wobbliness
- Changes in appetite or behaviour
If in doubt, call our Bayswater Vets’ team on 020 7229 2040 straight away. It helps to know what your pet may have eaten and how much, so keep labels or a plant photo to hand.
Download our dangerous plants list
Accidents can happen, especially during garden gatherings or walks. It’s a good idea to keep our emergency information to hand, just in case you need help quickly.
