are bonsai trees poisonous to dogs?

Are Bonsai Trees Poisonous to Dogs?

Are Bonsai Trees Poisonous to Dogs?

Dogs seldom consume enough of a plant to hurt them, but being curious creatures, they will eat almost anything. But are bonsai trees poisonous to dogs? If you want a bonsai and own a dog, it is best to find out which trees are poisonous and avoid them.

Call a veterinarian right away if your pet exhibits symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, and neurological indicators such as seizures, shaking, or poor coordination after eating a bonsai tree.

We'll teach you about which bonsai trees can safely cohabit with your dog, as well as which ones are hazardous and should be avoided. Before making any modifications around the house, we must constantly keep our dog's safety in mind.

Which Types Of Bonsai Trees Are Safe For Dogs?

While the bonsai trees that are list above should be avoided, most gardeners find that having a bonsai tree and a dog together is fine. It's critical to keep the bonsai tree out of the reach of the dog so that it doesn't eat it. 

It is hard to list "safe" bonsai trees that won't harm your dog, as even the "safe" trees can cause mild symptoms in your furry friend. The best rule of thumb is to keep your dog from eating plants, shrubs, or trees, no matter how much your dog likes them.

large bonsai tree

Which Bonsai Trees Are Poisonous To Dogs?

There are a wide range of bonsai trees that are poisonous to dogs, some are more common or popular than others. Before you go out and buy a bonsai, take a look at the list below. If you already have one of these trees, keep it out of your dog's reach.

Jade

Jade poisoning in dogs manifests itself in a variety of ways. The adverse effects are usually minor. While most cases of jade poisoning are mild to moderate, some dogs can be more severe.

Symptoms of jade poisoning include stomach pain, vomiting, lethargic behavior, or an increase in abnormal behavior such as fear or aggression.

Sago Palm

For dogs, sago plants are one of the most deadly bonsai trees. The sago palm is poisonous in all parts, especially the seeds. A dog can succumb to sago poisoning with a very small amount. 

Dogs can die from sago poisoning because it affects three major organ systems. Poisoning symptoms can appear as quickly as 15 minutes.

Symptoms of Sago poisoning include stomach pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, seizures, liver failure, and lethargic behavior.

Japanese Juniper

In dogs, juniper toxicity manifests itself in a variety of ways. Your dog may experience mild stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, or a skin rash. Juniper poisoning is more mild compared to other Bonsai Tree types.

Azaleas

Toxins found in azaleas can interfere with nerve function. The herb can produce irregular heart rhythms, low blood pressure, diarrhea, vomiting, and seizures.

Signs & symptoms will be noticeable within hours of ingestion. If your dog has eaten an azalea plant, seek medical help right away.

Other Bonsai Trees That Can Be Poisonous to Your Dog

  • Apricot
  • Australian Ivy Palm
  • Buddhist Pine
  • Cherry
  • Ficus
  • Fig
  • Boxwood
  • Norfolk Island Pine

You should conduct extensive research before buying a bonsai tree to ensure that the plant will not hurt your dog. When swallowed, certain common tree kinds that aren't dangerous to people can be toxic to dogs. A serious case of poisoning can be lethal in rare circumstances.

dog at vet after eating bonsai tree

Signs & Symptoms of Bonsai Poisoning

If your dog ingests even a small amount of Bonsai Tree, it is important to monitor your dog over the next few hours for the following symptoms:
  • Stomach Pain
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Abnormal Heart Rate
  • Drooling
  • Lethargic Behavior
  • Rapid or Shallow Breathing
  • Seizures

If you suspect poisoning, contact your veterinarian right away. Even if your dog's symptoms are minimal, it's best to avoid risking their condition worsening over time.

What Should I Do If My Dog Eats a Bonsai Tree?

Call your veterinarian. Depending on the severity of the problem, your veterinarian may have to resort to a range of interventions. The most common treatments are stomach pumping, antibiotics, and induced vomiting.

In severe cases, IV lines, blood transfusions, and the use of an IV line to cleanse the kidneys may be required.

It is important to remain calm and explain to your vet the circumstances. Being calm will help you get your pup the best help. Most Bonsai Tree poisonings are not serious and require only basic care.

golden retriever in yard

Review: Are Bonsai Trees Poisonous To Dogs?

If you've been wondering whether bonsai trees are poisonous to dogs, you now know that there are a few to avoid. Before adding a new plant into your home, it is important to make sure that it is safe for your dog.

Dogs are known to eat and get into things they aren't supposed to, which might lead to health problems. Seek medical help if your dog eats any part of your bonsai tree. 

You can also contact the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. The ASPCA will contact your veterinarian and send you faxes with particular plant treatment techniques and links to more resources.

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