Reviewed By Joana Garrido DVM
If you’re a dog owner, you may be curious about the safety of hibiscus plants for your pet. While most types are considered non-toxic, it can be difficult to determine which of the 200 species are harmful to canines. However, there is one hibiscus plant that is known for its poisonous effects. In this article, we’ll explore the primary cause of its toxicity and the potential dangers of its poison, so you can keep your pup safe.
What Is Hibiscus Poisoning?
Hibiscus poisoning refers to the toxicity caused by ingesting poisonous varieties of hibiscus.
The type of hibiscus commonly documented to have made this condition in dogs is the Rose of Sharon. In the scientific realm, it is known as Hibiscus syriacus.
The plant is a perennial flowering shrub that can grow up to 12 feet. The Rose of Sharon hibiscus goes by other names including:
- Rose of China
- Shrub Althea
- Hibiscus
Do not confuse the Rose of Sharon for the plant called Saint John’s wort, which is given the nickname Rose of Sharon.
Scientifically known as Hypericum perforatum, Saint John’s wort has medicinal effects on dogs, such as easing anxiety. However, it should not be used without the vet’s guidance.
Large doses of the plant can result in phototoxicity. Extended use may cause more serious side effects such as sedation, agitation, and high blood pressure.
Causes of Hibiscus Poisoning in Dogs
Hibiscus poisoning in dogs is caused by the toxic principle called asparagine. It is an amino acid that irritates the gastric tract when ingested.
Asparagine can also trigger a burning sensation and painful blisters that hinder canines from eating and drinking properly.
Due to a lack of studies, there is insufficient information about the other poisonous compounds of the hibiscus plants. Up to now, many of them remain unidentified and the extent of their toxicity is unknown.
How Toxic Are Hibiscus to Dogs?
Poisonous species of hibiscus such as the Rose of Sharon are considered to be mildly toxic to dogs.
Taking a small bite of the plant will not cause life-threatening side effects, but expect some form of mild stomach upset.
Hibiscus toxicity in canines is rare. However, do not disregard the unpleasant side effects it can inflict on your furry pal, even if they are not fatal.
Hence, we advise against growing hibiscus plants in your garden unless they are properly identified to be nontoxic to dogs by plant experts.
What Parts of the Hibiscus Are Toxic to Dogs?
The part of the toxic hibiscus species that usually harbors toxic compounds for dogs is the root.
Many dog owners also ask: “Are hibiscus leaves poisonous to dogs?” Yes, hibiscus leaves are poisonous to dogs along with the hibiscus flowers and stems.
Make sure that your canine companion does not ingest these poisonous parts of the hibiscus plants to keep him safe from toxic dangers.
Symptoms of Hibiscus Poisoning in Dogs
As stated earlier, hibiscus toxicity in dogs typically generates gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Other common symptoms that may appear are:
- Lack of appetite
- Burning sensation in the mouth and throat
- Swollen and/or blistered mouth and throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Gagging
- Coughing
If the plant’s toxic properties come into contact with your dog’s eyes, it can damage his corneas.
Sometimes, clinical signs of hibiscus toxicity in dogs are slow to manifest. It could take around 48 hours for some canines to display the symptoms.
What to Do If Your Dog Has Eaten Hibiscus?
If your dog ate a hibiscus plant, monitor him for signs of toxicity. While waiting, take note of the following important details:
- Species of hibiscus he has ingested
- Amount and parts of the plant consumed
- Estimated time your dog has eaten the hibiscus
After that, take a sample and a clear photo of the plant so the vet can properly identify what type it is. By taking time to do these steps, you will help quicken the diagnostic process for your dog’s condition.
Diagnosis of Hibiscus Toxicity in Dogs
The vet will perform a physical exam on your dog, which involves checking his:
- Breathing
- Body weight
- Blood pressure
- Pulse
- Temperature
Additional tests might be suggested to rule out other canine diseases. For instance, urine and stool samples help determine if the symptoms were not caused by an infection or parasite infestation.
Other lab tests the vet might carry out are:
Endoscopy: It is used to inspect the condition of your dog’s throat, esophagus, and upper airway.
X-ray: This will examine your dog’s stomach for possible stomach blockage due to ingesting plant matter.
Packed cell volume (PCV): It ascertains if your pooch has dehydration because of vomiting and diarrhea.
Treatment of Hibiscus Toxicity in Dogs
In general, supportive care is given to dogs suffering from hibiscus toxicity. The common types of treatment methods conducted are:
1. Emesis
The vet will administer a certain drug like ipecac or peroxide solution that induces vomiting. Letting dogs throw up helps remove undigested plant matter in their stomachs.
To induce vomiting in dogs, a veterinarian may administer a drug called apomorphine subcutaneously. Vomiting can help remove undigested plant matter from the dog’s stomach.
In addition, activated charcoal may be given to bind with the toxins and prevent their absorption into the bloodstream.
2. Detoxification
Intravenous fluid therapy is implemented to detoxify your dog’s body from the plant’s toxins. It provides kidney support too by keeping dogs from becoming dehydrated due to vomiting and diarrhea.
3. Medication
If your dog ingests a toxic hibiscus species, blisters and burns can form outside his mouth. A topical anti-inflammatory ointment will be prescribed to ease this side effect.
Blisters inside the mouth may be treated with a cortisone injection. Gut protectant medications will be administered to relieve stomach upset. Dogs experiencing persistent vomiting will be given antiemetics.
Prognosis of Hibiscus Toxicity in Dogs
Hibiscus poisoning is not life-threatening for dogs unless a large amount of toxic hibiscus plants is eaten. Currently, there are no records of fatalities resulting from ingesting them.
Most canines are able to make a full recovery after a few days of being provided with timely and appropriate treatment.
How to Avoid Hibiscus Toxicity in Dogs
The best precautionary measure to take is to avoid planting any type of hibiscus plant in your home.
However, if this is not possible, stick to growing tropical and hardy hibiscuses as they have not been linked to any toxic effects on dogs.
However, this does not guarantee that they are nonpoisonous to canines due to limited studies.
Just to be on the safe side, build a tall and strong fence around these plants to prevent your dog from accessing them. Also, regularly clean up your garden for any fallen plant matter so he does not consume them out of curiosity.
5 Common Plants Poisonous to Dogs
Here are other types of plants to keep away from Fido to safeguard him from their harmful adverse effects:
1. Aloe Vera
It is a misconception that the entire aloe vera plant is poisonous to dogs. Its latex is responsible for its toxicity. The liquid contains purgative anthraquinone glycosides and saponins that cause gastric distress.
2. Marijuana
If your dog ingests marijuana, they may experience a range of psychoactive side effects, including prolonged depression, vomiting, incoordination, sleepiness or excitation, hypersalivation, dilated pupils, low blood pressure, low body temperature, seizure, coma, and in rare cases, death. These effects are caused by the potent toxic compound in the plant called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
If you suspect that your dog has ingested marijuana, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately to prevent potentially serious health complications.
3. Oleander
Oleander is toxic to dogs because of the cardiac glycosides it produces. These poisonous agents interfere with heart function, causing arrhythmias and other cardiac problems. It can also cause drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, colic, depression and even death.
4. Oregano
Oregano contains gastrointestinal irritants such as terpenoids and phenols, which can cause stomach issues in dogs. If consumed in large doses, dogs may experience vomiting and diarrhea as a result. It’s important to monitor your dog’s consumption of oregano and seek veterinary care if you notice any concerning symptoms.
5. Tomato Plant
The green parts of tomatoes produce solanine and tomatine. Both of them are toxins that can cause gastrointestinal irritation.
Raw tomato fruits also contain these harmful compounds in high concentrations. However, once they are fully ripe, their toxic levels are greatly reduced.
FAQs About Hibiscus Poisoning in Dogs
Do Dogs Like to Eat Hibiscus Flowers?
Some dogs do like to eat hibiscus flowers. There are many possible reasons why they do it.
It could be because they are curious about the plant. In some cases, dogs might find the hibiscus flower enticing to eat. Behavioral issues such as pica should also be considered.
Is Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis Pet-Friendly?
The hibiscus rosa-sinensis or Chinese hibiscus is considered pet-friendly. Thus, it is a safe addition to your garden if you own a pooch.
Is Blue Hibiscus Toxic to Dogs?
There is a lack of studies focusing on blue hibiscus’ toxicity to dogs. Hence, we recommend erring on the side of caution. Instead, treat the blue hibiscus as a potentially poisonous plant to Fido.
Are Hibiscus Plants Poisonous to Dogs and Cats?
Hibiscus plant species that are poisonous to dogs are potentially toxic to cats as well. In the case of Rose of Sharon, it should be kept away from felines too as its toxins can affect them as well.
Summary
While many hibiscus plants are safe for dogs, some contain naturally occurring poisonous chemicals that can harm your furry friend. The Rose of Sharon, for example, can cause gastric upset, mouth, and airway irritation if ingested. To keep your dog safe, it’s best to avoid growing hibiscus plants in your garden or keep them out of your pet’s reach.
Additionally, our Plants section offers valuable information on different plant varieties that are toxic to dogs, so be sure to educate yourself on potential hazards to ensure the safety of your pup.
