Is snake plant poisonous for dogs? Here is a little information about the snake plant before answering the question.
Sansevieria trifasciata, commonly called snake plants, is a popular indoor plant native to Africa. The leaves are stiff, upright, blade-like, and have a yellow or white edge.
Due to their low maintenance nature and sharp appearance, they are commonly used as houseplants. They thrive best in warm temperatures between 65° and 80° degrees Fahrenheit.
Snake plants are known by the following common names:
- Mother-in-law’s tongue
- Good luck plant
- Golden birds nest
- Viper’s bowstring hemp
The robust nature of snake plants makes them suitable for growing both indoors as well as outdoors. Sunlight or indirect sunlight are neither necessary nor do they need much water. When snake plants aren’t taken care of properly, overwatering is a problem.
Because the leaf blade stops growing if the tip breaks, you should handle its leaves with care.
The snake plant also enables you to release fresh oxygen into the air at night by removing CO2, as well as other pollutants. In addition to filtering air for allergens, the plant is also useful for people with allergies.
Snake plant material is sometimes used to treat fungal infections and for cosmetic purposes. The plant is beneficial for people, but there are some factors we don’t consider that can cause problems.
Although we may not think about the properties of the snake plant, we should be aware of its impact on the health of others. Is the snake plant poisonous to dogs?
Is the Snake Plant Poisonous or a Toxic Plant?
Humans are normally safe from snake plants and show no symptoms of toxicity under normal circumstances. Even if you come into contact with the fumes, you won’t be harmed. Sadly, pets can be poisoned by them.
Can dogs be poisoned by snake plants? It is indeed poisonous to dogs.
When ingested, the plant can also be harmful to cats, horses, and children.
While the plant has mild toxicity when swallowed, eating too much of it can cause more harm to your pet. If left unattended, the plant’s appealing shape might attract the attention of a curious or bored dog. They may stay away from it if they taste bitter.
Which Parts of Snake Plants Are Poisonous or Toxic?
The leaves of the mother-in-law’s tongue are highly toxic since they are its most prominent feature.
The plant’s leaves contain saponins that act as natural insecticides and cause its toxicity. They can be harmful to consumers if swallowed in large quantities.
Which Symptoms Are Associated with Snake Plant Poisoning?
Snake plant poisoning can cause swelling or numbness of the tongue if eaten. Chewing or swallowing it may cause an allergic reaction to the throat. Human contact does not cause dermatitis.
You should look out for these symptoms if your dog swallows it:
- Feeling nauseated
- Appetite loss
- Depression
- Having diarrhea
- Drooling excessively
- The vomit may be bloody at times.
It is possible that cats eating snake plants may have dilated pupils due to the consumption of mother-in-law’s tongue.
When You Handle Snake Plants, Make Sure You and Your Dog Are Protected
If you cannot remove snake plants permanently from your home, keep them away from dogs, cats, young children, and other animals as much as you can.
When handling the plant, wear gloves to prevent saponins from getting on your hands.
After handling the plant, you may also want to wash your hands to avoid accidentally getting plant fluid in your eyes or mouth.
You should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible if your dog shows signs of ingesting snake plants.
Snake plants are an excellent addition to any house due to their unique shape and ability to purify the air without extensive care.
Even so, you should be aware that if not properly watched, maybe snake plant poisonous to your dog. It’s better to stay safe than to put your dog’s life at risk for a pretty plant.