Are Peace Lilies Toxic to Dogs?

Peace Lilies are indeed toxic to dogs. They contain substances that can cause irritation and discomfort if ingested by dogs. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips. In severe cases, it can even lead to more serious issues like difficulty breathing or kidney failure.

So, it’s important to keep Peace Lilies out of reach of your furry friends to ensure their safety. If you suspect your dog has ingested any part of a Peace Lily, it’s best to contact your veterinarian right away for advice and possible treatment.

Read | Are Peace Lilies Toxic to Cats?

Why are peace lilies dangerous to dogs?

Peace lilies are dangerous to dogs because they contain toxins called calcium oxalate crystals. These toxins can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract if ingested by dogs. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and irritation of the mouth and lips. 

In severe cases, it can lead to more serious health issues such as difficulty breathing or even kidney failure. Therefore, keeping peace lilies and other toxic plants out of reach of pets is important to ensure their safety.

What should I do if my dog has eaten a peace lily?

If your dog has eaten a peace lily, immediately contact your veterinarian. Watch for symptoms like vomiting, drooling, or difficulty swallowing. Provide your vet with details about the incident. 

They’ll advise on next steps, which may include inducing vomiting, administering medications, or providing supportive care. Keep your dog comfortable and monitor closely for any changes in behavior or symptoms. Seek professional help promptly to ensure your dog’s safety and well-being.

Symptoms of Peace Lily Poisoning in Dogs:

• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing
• Mouth irritation
• Throat swelling
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Respiratory distress
• Kidney failure
• Oral swelling
• Difficulty breathing

Diagnosing Plant Poisoning in Dogs:

• Your vet may ask about the plant your dog consumed and any symptoms they’re showing.
• They might conduct a physical examination and run tests to assess your dog’s condition.

Treatment:

• Treatment for peace lily poisoning in dogs may involve inducing vomiting to remove the plant material from the stomach if it was recently ingested.
• Your vet may also administer medications to help alleviate symptoms such as vomiting and irritation.
• In severe cases, your dog may need supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, to prevent dehydration and support kidney function.
• Follow your vet’s advice closely and monitor your dog closely for any changes in their condition.

Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your pet’s health. If you suspect your dog has ingested a peace lily or any other toxic plant, don’t hesitate to seek veterinary assistance promptly.

How to Prevent Peace Lily Poisoning

Preventing peace lily poisoning in dogs involves taking proactive measures to keep these plants out of reach. Here’s how to safeguard your pet:

• Placement: Place peace lilies in areas inaccessible to your dog, such as high shelves or hanging planters.
• Supervision: Supervise your dog when they’re outdoors to prevent them from accessing plants in the garden or yard.
• Education: Familiarize yourself with toxic plants and their symptoms to recognize potential dangers.
• Substitution: Consider pet-safe alternatives to decorate your home, such as non-toxic plants or artificial foliage.

By implementing these precautions, you can reduce the risk of peace lily poisoning in your dog.

Are all parts of the peace lily poisonous to dogs?

Yes, all parts of the peace lily, including the leaves, stems, flowers, and roots, contain toxins that can be harmful to dogs if ingested. 

The primary toxic compounds in peace lilies are calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract. Therefore, keeping all parts of the peace lily out of reach of pets is essential to prevent accidental ingestion and potential poisoning.

How do I stop my dog from eating a peace lily?

To prevent your dog from eating a peace lily, follow these strategies:

• Physical Barrier: Place the peace lily in a location inaccessible to your dog, such as on a high shelf or in a room with a closed door.
• Training: Train your dog to avoid plants by using positive reinforcement techniques and redirecting their attention to appropriate toys or treats.
• Supervision: Keep a close eye on your dog when they’re near plants, and intervene immediately if they show interest in chewing or eating them.
• Alternative Chews: Provide your dog with safe and engaging chew toys to satisfy their natural chewing instincts and divert their attention away from plants. 

The bottom line: Are peace lilies poisonous to my dog?

Peace lilies are poisonous to dogs. All parts of the peace lily plant contain toxins called calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract if ingested. 

Symptoms of peace lily poisoning in dogs include drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and mouth or throat irritation. 

In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory distress or kidney failure. Therefore, it’s essential to keep peace lilies out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion and potential poisoning.

Other Houseplants That Are Safe for Dogs:

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Spider plants are safe for dogs and are known for their air-purifying qualities. They’re easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of indoor conditions, making them popular choices for pet-friendly households.
2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): Boston ferns are non-toxic to dogs and add a touch of lush greenery to indoor spaces. They prefer indirect light and high humidity, making them suitable for bathrooms or kitchens with ample moisture.
3. African Violet (Saintpaulia): African violets are colorful flowering plants that are safe for dogs. They come in a variety of shades and can bloom year-round, brightening up any room without posing a risk to pets.
4. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans): Parlor palms are safe for dogs and can tolerate low light conditions, making them perfect for homes with limited sunlight. They add a tropical touch to indoor spaces while remaining pet-friendly.

Other Houseplants That Are Toxic for Dogs:

1. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane): Dumb cane plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, swelling, and difficulty swallowing if ingested by dogs. Keep these plants out of reach of pets to prevent accidental ingestion and potential poisoning.
2. Philodendron: Philodendrons are toxic to dogs and contain calcium oxalate crystals, similar to peace lilies. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset and mouth irritation in dogs, so it’s best to avoid having these plants in pet-accessible areas.
3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Snake plants are toxic to dogs if ingested and can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. Keep them out of reach of pets or opt for pet-safe alternatives to ensure your dog’s safety.
4. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy): Pothos plants are poisonous to dogs and can cause vomiting, drooling, and oral irritation due to their calcium oxalate content. Keep them out of reach or opt for pet-safe alternatives to ensure your dog’s safety.

FAQs:

Are peace lilies poisonous to dogs?

Yes, peace lilies are poisonous to dogs due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals throughout the plant.

What should I do if my dog eats a peace lily?

If your dog eats a peace lily, seek immediate veterinary assistance for proper treatment.

How can I prevent peace lily poisoning in my dog?

Prevent peace lily poisoning in dogs by keeping the plants out of reach and supervising outdoor activities.

Which houseplants are safe for dogs?

Safe houseplants for dogs include spider plants, Boston ferns, African violets, and parlor palms.

What are some common toxic houseplants for dogs?

Common toxic houseplants for dogs include dieffenbachia, philodend.

See Related Articles:

• Are Snake Plants Toxic to Cats?
• Are Spider Plants Toxic to Cats?
• Are Air Plants Toxic to Dogs?
• Are Air Plants Toxic to Cats?