Pet emergency
My dog ate Ernst's Spurflower — what to do
Step by step
- Take ernst's spurflower 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 ernst's spurflower — FAQ
Is ernst's spurflower poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Ernst's Spurflower (Plectranthus ernstii) as mildly toxic to dogs. Not individually listed by ASPCA. The foliage contains essential oils that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset (drooling, vomiting) if ingested by cats or dogs in quantity; keep pets from chewing the plant as a precaution.
How serious is it if my dog ate ernst's spurflower?
Ernst's Spurflower 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. Not individually listed by ASPCA. The foliage contains essential oils that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset (drooling, vomiting) if ingested by cats or dogs in quantity; keep pets from chewing the plant as a precaution. 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 ernst's spurflower well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is ernst's spurflower toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Ernst's Spurflower and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide