If you are looking to get a dog for the first time in your home, you must have had a hard time worrying about fixing up the house. Getting a dog into your house requires a whole load of adjustment to ensure their comfort. From getting suitable furniture to getting Safe home plants, all of these must be running through your mind. However, there are certain plants that are considered harmful for dogs. In this post, “Are Snake Plants Toxic to Dogs?: All you Need to Know”, we are going to discuss one of them. We also talked about Why are Snake Plants Considered Toxic to Dogs? and What to do if your Dog Eats a Snake Plant. As well as How to Stop your Dog from Eating a Snake Plant and Symptoms of Snake Plant Poisoning in Dogs.
Snake plants are also called Dracaena trifasciata. They are common indoor plants recognized for their resilient, long, succulent, grass-like leaves and easy care. They are well-suited for those new to caring for houseplants because they can endure neglect. However, despite their appealing appearance and hardiness, there’s a concern about whether it’s safe to have these plants in homes with dogs. Regrettably, snake plants are poisonous and should be kept away from the reach of dogs, cats, and even small children. Let’s explore the reasons behind this.
See also: 10 Ways to Keep your Dog Safe
Why are Snake Plants Considered Toxic to Dogs?
Snake plants have substances called saponins, which are waxy compounds. These can make dogs vomit and have diarrhea. Saponins are like a defense mechanism for plants, protecting them from insects, bacteria, and fungi. The bitter taste of saponins usually stops animals from eating too much of the plant. When saponins are eaten, they react with cholesterol in the body in a way that is not good.
Cholesterol helps keep cell membranes stable, but when saponins mix with it in the intestines, it weakens the cells and makes them leaky. This causes an imbalance in water, leading to diarrhea. If a dog eats a lot of saponins, it can cause severe inflammation in the intestines.
What to do if your Dog Eats a Snake Plant
Having understood how dangerous and harmful snake plants are to dog, what measures can you take?
If your dog eats some of a snake plant, keep an eye out for any stomach issues. If it’s just a small amount, your dog might only have a bit of diarrhea and otherwise be okay. But if your dog is throwing up a lot, has bloody vomit or diarrhea, or seems weak, it’s important to contact your vet. Even if your dog ate the whole plant and doesn’t show symptoms yet, it’s a good idea to talk to the vet to be safe.
See also: 5 Toxic Foods To Avoid For Dogs
How to Stop your Dog from Eating a Snake Plant
Because snake plants are tough and can thrive in low-light places, they’re great for different spots in your home. To keep your dog from nibbling on the plant, put it in a spot your dog can’t reach. Places like on a high shelf or a tall plant stand. If you move the plant outside for the summer, do the same. You could also place the plant in a room where your dog isn’t allowed. If your dog is crafty and might still find a way to snack on the snake plant, you might need to give it to a friend. We shall now discuss the signs to look out for in this post “Are Snake Plants Toxic to Dogs?: All you Need to Know”
Symptoms of Snake Plant Poisoning in Dogs
Snake plants can make dogs a bit sick or really sick if they eat them. Some dogs might feel a bit nauseous, while others could have serious stomach problems. Signs that a dog ate a snake plant include feeling sick, having diarrhea, throwing up (possibly with blood), and drooling. Keep reading this post on “Are Snake Plants Toxic to Dogs?: All you Need to Know” for more!
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How to Treat Snake Plant Poisoning in Dogs
When a dog has snake plant poisoning, the time it takes to get better depends on the symptoms. If the dog hasn’t thrown up yet or there are still plant pieces in the stomach, the vet might make the dog throw up. They could also give the dog activated charcoal to soak up the toxins. If the dog is throwing up and has diarrhea, the vet might give them fluids with electrolytes to prevent dehydration and help get rid of the toxins. The vet could also give the dog other medicines, like anti-vomiting drugs or things to soothe the stomach, based on what symptoms the dog has. The treatment is personalized to make sure the dog gets the right care and support for a speedy recovery.
Plants that are also Dangerous for Dogs
Sago Palm
This pretty plant is really dangerous for dogs. If a dog eats any part of it, they can throw up, have bloody diarrhea, and even damage their liver.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
This tough plant has something called calcium oxalates in it. If a dog eats the leaves, they might throw up and have diarrhea. The calcium oxalates can also hurt their gums and tongue, making it painful for them to eat more of the plant.
Aloe Vera
While the gel inside aloe vera is okay for dogs, the leaves around it are not. If a dog eats the plant, they can throw up, have diarrhea, and feel really tired.
See also: 15 Cat Behaviors you didn’t know about
Safer Alternatives to Snake Plants
Cast Iron Plant
These tall plants have similar sword-like leaves as snake plants, but they won’t harm your dog. They do well in low-to-medium light and are tough and hard to kill, making them a good choice.
Ponytail Palm
These plants have big, round trunks and flowing grass-like leaves. They don’t need a lot of care and can handle dry conditions well.
Spider Plant
With grass-like, spiky leaves, spider plants are popular and safe for dogs. Their yellow and green striped leaves look like snake plants, and they have hanging baby spider plants, giving them a unique look when placed up high.
See also: 5 Best Nail Scratch Pad for Dogs
Zebra Calathea
This plant has striking zebra-like stripes on its leaves and can grow two to three feet tall. It needs more water and humidity, but it’s a beautiful replacement for the snake plant with its eye-catching foliage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, despite their resilience and aesthetic appeal, snake plants can be toxic to dogs due to substances like saponins. It’s essential to keep them out of reach, consider safer plant alternatives, and promptly consult a vet if ingestion is suspected. Prioritizing our pets’ safety ensures a harmonious home environment.
See also: https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-advice/search-dog-advice/poisonous-plants-for-dogs