What happens if a dog eats aloe vera? There are hundreds of plants that are considered toxic to animals and some of these plants can be found around the home. Aloe vera is likely to be one of those plants as it contains a certain compound that can harm pets if consumed in excess.
Aloe vera is a plant that has been around for a very long time, it can be planted indoors and outdoor. The leaves of aloe vera are succulent and the gel obtained from them can be used as a topical treatment.
It’s important to take note of plants that can be harmful to your pets around the house and it’s often easy for them to chew on them. While the gel from this plant might be great for humans, it might not be the same for pets.
Aloe vera also happens to be the most widely used herbal medicine for skin treatment hence many expect it to be safe for anyone, but this might not be the case with dogs. Read on to discover if dogs can eat aloe vera and if it’s considered poisonous to pets in general.
Can Dogs Eat Aloe Vera? Is It Poisonous to Pets?
The simple answer to this is no. Aloe vera should definitely not be consumed by your dog. This plant contains a chemical called saponin and other compounds and the ingestion is considered toxic to children, cats, and dogs.
Although it is medicinal to adults, the chemical in it is not ideal for dogs consumption. The active ingredient in aloe vera can cause severe damage to your dogs if eaten in large quantities.
You need to make sure your dogs do not go anywhere near your aloe vera plants, although it is mildly toxic to dogs. Additionally, take note that aloe vera can be part of a product’s ingredient used for your dogs, but a large amount of the leaves should not be eaten.
Aloe vera is definitely poisonous to pets such as cats if it is eaten in a large amount. Research has always shown cats and dogs to be the most exposed to eating aloe vera plants. If you are just applying the gel part of the aloe vera on your dog’s body to soothe a wound then this is okay but eating a large part of it can be extremely dangerous to them
There are several ways aloe vera can be used but you need to take note of the compounds in them and what excess use can do to you or your pets. The clear gel can be used topically in creams and ointments to treat your pets and although humans can use it orally to treat constipation, animals are not to be given that luxury.
Symptoms Of Aloe Vera Poisoning In Pets
Aloe vera is a really great plant to have around your home but you really need to be on the lookout for your dogs and pets when they go near this plant. Your pets are only going to get sick when they consume a large part of aloe vera plants or a certain chemical in it irritates their skin. Here are the symptoms to watch out for.
- Excessive vomiting
- Skin rashes and irritation
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- lethargy
- Change in urine color
- Anorexia
- Difficulty in breathing
- Seizeures and tremors
- Drooling
- Dilated pupils
- Depression.
The most likely way your pets can get aloe vera poisoning is if they consume a large amount of aloe vera either as gel, latex or in supplements.
Aloe vera gel can be used in treating some skin conditions on your dog though, provided it is used carefully. Aloe vera also has laxative properties and if your dog has a latex allergy then keep it away from it.
Safe Use Of Aloe Vera For Dogs
If used correctly either topically or orally then you do not have to worry about it having any effect on your dog. The chemical compounds in aloe vera are only mildly or moderately toxic to pets, especially dogs. However, if you are planning to use aloe vera internally or externally for your dog, you need to stay away from the latex as dogs are often allergic to it.
You should also consult your veterinarian before giving aloe vera or any product that contains it to your dog. Excessive doses of aloe vera can be harmful to dogs so you need to see your veterinarian for the correct prescription except you are using it externally.
Use aloe vera in very small quantities if you are using it internally and remember it works best for soothing skin inflammation in pets. You need to make sure you are using the right part of the plant when using it for dogs. Ensure it doesn’t contain the whole leaf, aloe latex, or aloin and you are good to go.
Final Thoughts
Aloe vera is not just beneficial to you but it can be of great benefit to pets if it’s used without all the toxic ingredients and in very small amounts.
There are lots of safe pre-made aloe vera products in the market that can be used for your dog and if you are not sure, ask a veterinarian for advice. Also if you have concerns about your dog already eating aloe vera then you should see a veterinarian immediately.
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