Pet emergency
My dog ate Philodendron Bipennifolium (Horsehead) — what to do
Step by step
- Take philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) 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 philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) — FAQ
Is philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Philodendron Bipennifolium (Horsehead) (Philodendron bipennifolium) as toxic to dogs. The ASPCA individually lists the Horsehead Philodendron (Philodendron bipennifolium, family Araceae) as toxic to both dogs and cats. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it away from pets and children.
How serious is it if my dog ate philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead)?
Philodendron Bipennifolium (Horsehead) is toxic to dogs and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 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. The ASPCA individually lists the Horsehead Philodendron (Philodendron bipennifolium, family Araceae) as toxic to both dogs and cats. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which cause oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep it away from pets and children. 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 philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is philodendron bipennifolium (horsehead) toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Philodendron Bipennifolium (Horsehead) and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide