Fiddle leaf, heartleaf philodendron, or horsehead philodendron, whichever you may plant as a houseplant in your home, is toxic to dogs. Eating philodendron can lead to severe issues for dogs, and pet owners need to know why this happens. Here is why your philodendron houseplants toxic to dogs.
Philodendron Poisoning
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Philodendrons are species in the Araceae family. Philodendron poisoning is a type of plant poisoning that occurs when a person ingests or comes into contact with the sap of certain species of the philodendron plant.
The philodendron is a common houseplant that is known for its attractive leaves and ease of care. However, it may be toxic to dogs and humans if ingested or if its sap comes into contact with the skin or mucous membranes of your furry friends.
The toxicity of philodendron plants is due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals in their tissues, which can lead to irritation and inflammation.
Symptoms of philodendron poisoning may include a burning or tingling sensation in the mouth, throat, or skin, as well as swelling, red patches, and blistering.
While philodendron poisoning is generally considered to be mild to moderate, it is possible for the ingestion of large amounts of the plant to cause kidney failure in pets. The same calcium oxalate crystals in philodendrons can accumulate in the kidneys, causing damage to the tissues and impairing kidney function.
Symptoms of kidney failure can include decreased appetite, lethargy, increased thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.
If you suspect that the pet has eaten a large amount of philodendron toxic plants and is exhibiting these symptoms, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention immediately.
Treatment may include aggressive hydration and diuresis to flush the kidneys, as well as supportive care, including electrolyte supplementation and medications to protect the kidneys and promote healing. In severity, hospitalization and dialysis may be required.
Symptoms of Philodendron Poisoning in Dogs and Cats
The signs of philodendron poisoning in dogs and cats are similar to those seen in humans, and they typically occur within a few hours of ingestion. The most common poisoning symptoms include:
Excessive drooling
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea
Difficulty swallowing
Pawing at the mouth
Mouth swelling
Skin irritation, especially around the lips
Digestive issues
Tongue and throat swelling
Lethargy or weakness
Tremors or seizures
If you suspect any of the clinical symptoms of philodendron poisoning in a pet that has ingested a philodendron plant, it is important to seek a local veterinarian’s attention immediately. The severity of this poisoning can lead to kidney damage.
Treatment of Philodendron Poisoning in Dogs
Treating philodendron-poisoned dogs and cats depends on the severity of the symptoms and the amount of the plant ingested. If you suspect that the pet has taken philodendron, it’s important to seek veterinary attention immediately.
Treatment may include:
Induce vomiting
If the ingestion is recent and your pet is still conscious, your veterinarian may induce vomiting to remove any remaining plant material from the stomach.
Activated charcoal
Activated charcoal may be administered to absorb toxins in the gastrointestinal tract.
Supportive care
Your veterinarian may provide supportive care like IV fluids to prevent dehydration, anti-inflammatory medication to reduce inflammation and pain, and anti-nausea medication to alleviate vomiting and diarrhea.
Hospitalization
In severe scenarios of philodendron poisoning, hospitalization may be required to monitor your pet’s condition and provide more intensive treatment, such as oxygen therapy or blood transfusions.
Liver support
Philodendron poisoning can cause liver damage in some cases, so your veterinarian may provide liver support medication to protect your pet’s liver and prevent further damage.
Five common house plants toxic to dogs and cats
Jade plants
Jade plant (Crassula ovata) is toxic for pets, particularly dogs and cats, if eaten in large amounts. The jade plant contains a toxic compound called bufadienolides, which can lead to vomiting, lethargy, incoordination, and depression in pets. In severity, it may lead to tremors, seizures, and also death.
You should seek out a local veterinarian right away if you think your pet may have consumed a jade plant.
Sago palms
Sago palms (Cycas revoluta) are highly toxic for pets if ingested. All parts of the plant contain cycasin, a toxic compound that can cause liver failure and neurological damage.
The toxic effects of sago palms can be seen with even a small amount of ingestion, and the plant can be deadly to pets within a few days of ingestion.
Snake plants
snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) is considered toxic for pets, particularly dogs and cats if ingested in large quantities. The plant contains saponins, which can develop irritation in the GI tract in pets, including vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
While the toxic substance in snake plants is generally considered mild to moderate, some pets may be more sensitive to its effects than others. On rare occasions, ingestion of snake plants can cause more severe symptoms such as excessive drooling, lethargy, loss of appetite, and dilated pupils.
If you believe the pet has consumed snake plants, it’s crucial to watch out for indications of disease and get in touch with your vet if they intensify or persist. Activated charcoal, medicine, and supportive care, including IV fluids and painkillers, may all be used in the course of treatment to reduce symptoms. Inducing vomiting is also a possible option.
Peace Lillies
Peace lily (Spathiphyllum species) is toxic for pets, particularly dogs and cats, if ingested in large quantities. The plant produces calcium oxalate crystals, which may lead to nausea, vomiting, mouth and lip swelling, as well as difficulty swallowing.
Chewing peace lilies can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some pets, particularly those with sensitive skin. While the toxicity is generally considered mild to moderate, some pets may be more sensitive to its effects than others.
Devil’s ivy
Devil’s ivy, also known as pothos or Epipremnum aureum, is considered to be mildly toxic to dogs. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which may lead to oral irritation and swelling in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
FAQs
What to do if your dog eats a philodendron plant?
If you think that your dog has eaten a philodendron plant, it is important to take action quickly. Here are some steps you can take:
Remove any remaining plant material: If there are any pieces of the plant left, remove them from your dog’s mouth and the surrounding area to prevent further ingestion using cold water.
Call your vet: Contact your veterinarian right away, even if your dog is not showing any symptoms. They can provide advice on how to proceed and may recommend bringing your pet in for examination.
Why Are calcium oxalate crystals harmful?
Since they can physically affect the tissues and organs they come into contact with, calcium oxalate crystals can be dangerous. These sharp crystals can irritate and inflame the mouth, throat, and digestive tract when consumed, resulting in symptoms like drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea.
In addition, these tiny crystals can build up in the kidneys and other organs after being absorbed into the bloodstream, which may result in renal damage or even renal failure.
Numerous plants, including several that are frequently found in homes, like philodendrons, dieffenbachias, and peace lilies, contain calcium oxalate crystals. The potential for toxicity and other negative effects must be understood.
Wrapping It Up: Philodendron Poisoning
Philodendrons are common houseplants that are toxic to dogs and other animals too. The sap contains insoluble oxalate crystals, which are poisonous to dogs. The signs of poisoning usually start with oral pain and abdominal pain. If the toxicity level increases, it will cause renal failure. It is important to give mandatory first aid to the dog.