Pet emergency
My dog ate Lesser Theriophonum — what to do
Step by step
- Take lesser theriophonum 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 a poison-control line — (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK. Both charge a consultation fee. 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 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK.
My dog ate lesser theriophonum — FAQ
Is lesser theriophonum poisonous to dogs?
Yes — Lesser Theriophonum (Theriophonum minutum) is regarded as toxic to dogs, based on genus- and family-level toxicity data. Member of the Araceae family; all parts are presumed to contain insoluble calcium oxalate raphides consistent with the broader aroid family. Not individually listed by ASPCA. The tubers are reportedly used medicinally and as food in India only after processing (steaming/drying) to remove the irritant compounds. Raw consumption causes intense oral burning and irritation. Treat as toxic to pets and do not ingest raw.
How serious is it if my dog ate lesser theriophonum?
Lesser Theriophonum is toxic to dogs and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, 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. Member of the Araceae family; all parts are presumed to contain insoluble calcium oxalate raphides consistent with the broader aroid family. Not individually listed by ASPCA. The tubers are reportedly used medicinally and as food in India only after processing (steaming/drying) to remove the irritant compounds. Raw consumption causes intense oral burning and irritation. Treat as toxic to pets and do not ingest raw. 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 a poison-control specialist specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call your vet, or (888) 426-4435 in the US, or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509 000 in the UK, and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep lesser theriophonum well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Type any plant to see what the ASPCA says about it and your dog.
Related
- Is lesser theriophonum toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Lesser Theriophonum and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide
- Best plant app for pet owners — which apps actually flag ASPCA toxicity before you buy the plant