Pet emergency
My dog ate Ohio Spiderwort — what to do
Step by step
- Take ohio spiderwort 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 ohio spiderwort — FAQ
Is ohio spiderwort poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Ohio Spiderwort (Tradescantia ohiensis) as mildly toxic to dogs. T. ohiensis is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic plant database, but the genus includes Tradescantia fluminensis (Inch Plant), which ASPCA classifies as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (causing dermatitis). Sap of native spiderworts can cause skin and eye irritation in some individuals and mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested by pets; treat as mildly toxic and keep pets from chewing plants.
How serious is it if my dog ate ohio spiderwort?
Ohio Spiderwort 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. T. ohiensis is not individually listed on the ASPCA toxic plant database, but the genus includes Tradescantia fluminensis (Inch Plant), which ASPCA classifies as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses (causing dermatitis). Sap of native spiderworts can cause skin and eye irritation in some individuals and mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested by pets; treat as mildly toxic and keep pets from chewing plants. 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 ohio spiderwort well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is ohio spiderwort toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Ohio Spiderwort and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide