If you’re a dog owner who enjoys gardening, it’s important to be aware of potential risks in your yard. Hydrangeas, while seemingly harmless, contain compounds that could pose a threat to dogs if ingested. Understanding these risks and taking the right precautions can help you create a garden that’s both stunning and pet-friendly.
Are Hydrangeas Toxic to Dogs?
Hydrangeas contain a substance called amygdalin, which can break down into cyanide when ingested. While the concentration is generally low, it’s enough to cause concern, especially if your dog has a habit of nibbling on plants. The level of toxicity can vary depending on factors such as:
- The specific type of hydrangea
- Growing conditions
- The amount consumed
- Your dog’s size and health
Which Parts of the Hydrangea Are Most Harmful?
Not all parts of the hydrangea plant carry the same level of risk. Here’s a breakdown of which parts contain the highest concentrations of amygdalin:
- Flowers: The blooms contain the least toxins but still shouldn’t be ingested.
- Leaves: The leaves contain a higher concentration of amygdalin and are more likely to cause adverse effects.
- Stems: While they contain some toxins, the levels are lower than in the leaves.
- Roots: Roots hold the highest concentration of amygdalin, though dogs are less likely to dig them up.
- Seeds: Seeds are present in the center of the flowers; they contain toxins but in relatively small amounts.
Signs of Hydrangea Poisoning in Dogs
Knowing what symptoms to look for can help you act quickly if your dog happens to ingest part of a hydrangea plant. Some common signs include:
- Digestive issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or abdominal discomfort
- Lethargy: Your dog may seem unusually tired or sluggish
- Excessive drooling: A common response to irritation caused by the plant
- Depression: Your pup may seem uninterested in their surroundings
- Tremors or seizures: More severe cases can lead to neurological symptoms
- Breathing difficulties: This is a serious symptom requiring immediate veterinary attention
- Changes in heart rate: Hydrangea toxins can impact the cardiovascular system.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Hydrangea
If you suspect your dog has ingested any part of a hydrangea plant, stay calm and take the following steps:
- Remove them from the area to prevent further ingestion.
- Identify the plant by taking a photo or sample to show your veterinarian.
- Avoid inducing vomiting unless directed by a vet, as this can sometimes worsen the situation.
- Call your veterinarian with details such as the estimated amount consumed, your dog’s size, and any symptoms.
- Monitor your dog closely for any changes, even if they initially seem fine.
- Follow veterinary instructions—your vet may advise bringing your dog in for an examination or suggest home care.
Treatment of Hydrangea Poisoning in Dogs
As Barri J. Morrison, DVM stated in the PetMD article:
“Treatment of hydrangea toxicity in dogs will depend on your dog’s size and how much they potentially ingested.
Mild hydrangea toxicity can usually be treated from home. Your veterinarian will likely prescribe antinausea medications and antibiotics for diarrhea.
They may also recommend probiotics to help repopulate the gut with the good bacteria that’s often lost with diarrhea.
If your dog is dehydrated or not eating well, your veterinarian may recommend that they stay in the hospital for the day or overnight to receive IV fluid therapy.
If your dog’s hydrangea ingestion occurred within the past few hours, your veterinarian might choose to induce vomiting to help decrease the amount of toxin that is absorbed.
Never induce vomiting in your pet at home.
In severe cases, your dog will need to be hospitalized to receive IV fluids and medications, as well as oxygen therapy if needed.
If your dog has a fever, the veterinary team may use cool towels, ice packs, and fans to help decrease it. An ECG monitor and medications might be used if your dog’s heart rate is elevated or irregular.”