Pet emergency
My dog ate Alii Fig — what to do
Step by step
- Take alii fig away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My dog ate alii fig — FAQ
Is alii fig poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Alii Fig (Ficus maclellandii 'Alii') as toxic to dogs. Toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA classifies Ficus as toxic, with toxic principles ficin (a proteolytic enzyme) and ficusin (psoralen) in the milky sap. Ingestion or contact with the sap can cause mouth and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and decreased appetite. Position out of pets' reach and wear gloves when pruning.
How serious is it if my dog ate alii fig?
Alii Fig is toxic to dogs and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. Toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA classifies Ficus as toxic, with toxic principles ficin (a proteolytic enzyme) and ficusin (psoralen) in the milky sap. Ingestion or contact with the sap can cause mouth and skin irritation, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and decreased appetite. Position out of pets' reach and wear gloves when pruning. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my dog vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep alii fig well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is alii fig toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Alii Fig and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide