Pet emergency
My dog ate Arrowhead plant — what to do
Step by step
- Take arrowhead plant 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 arrowhead plant — FAQ
Is arrowhead plant poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum) as mildly toxic to dogs. ASPCA lists Syngonium podophyllum as toxic to cats and dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalates. Chewing causes oral irritation, drooling, and rare vomiting.
How serious is it if my dog ate arrowhead plant?
Arrowhead plant is mildly toxic, so most dogs get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your dog ate a lot or symptoms persist.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. ASPCA lists Syngonium podophyllum as toxic to cats and dogs due to insoluble calcium oxalates. Chewing causes oral irritation, drooling, and rare vomiting. 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?
Move arrowhead plant well out of reach, or replace it with a pet-safe look-alike — good dog-safe swaps include prayer plant, calathea, peperomia, all ASPCA non-toxic. See pet-safe alternatives to arrowhead plant.
Related
- Is arrowhead plant toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Arrowhead plant and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide
- Pet-safe alternatives to arrowhead plant