Growli
Let's go

If your dog ate moth mullein — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Moth Mullein is mildly toxic to dogs (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My dog ate Moth Mullein — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take moth mullein away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. 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 moth mullein — FAQ

Is moth mullein poisonous to dogs?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Moth Mullein (Verbascum blattaria) as mildly toxic to dogs. Verbascum blattaria is not individually listed by ASPCA on toxic or non-toxic plant lists. As with other Verbascum species, the seeds contain rotenone-related compounds and iridoid glycosides that may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested in quantity. Overall risk is considered low. The flowers and leaves have historical herbal use but should not be consumed without professional guidance. Contact dermatitis from the slightly hairy leaves is possible in sensitive individuals.

How serious is it if my dog ate moth mullein?

Moth Mullein 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. Verbascum blattaria is not individually listed by ASPCA on toxic or non-toxic plant lists. As with other Verbascum species, the seeds contain rotenone-related compounds and iridoid glycosides that may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested in quantity. Overall risk is considered low. The flowers and leaves have historical herbal use but should not be consumed without professional guidance. Contact dermatitis from the slightly hairy leaves is possible in sensitive individuals. 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 moth mullein well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.

Related