Pet emergency
My dog ate Flowering currant — what to do
Step by step
- Take flowering currant 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 flowering currant — FAQ
Is flowering currant poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Flowering currant (Ribes sanguineum) as mildly toxic to dogs. Ribes sanguineum berries and foliage are mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in quantity; gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea) has been reported. Not individually listed by ASPCA, but caution is advised. The berries are unpalatable rather than truly hazardous in small amounts.
How serious is it if my dog ate flowering currant?
Flowering currant 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. Ribes sanguineum berries and foliage are mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested in quantity; gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhoea) has been reported. Not individually listed by ASPCA, but caution is advised. The berries are unpalatable rather than truly hazardous in small amounts. 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 flowering currant well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is flowering currant toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Flowering currant and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide