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If your dog ate sabre-leaved hottentot fig — 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.

Sabre-Leaved Hottentot Fig is mildly toxic to dogs (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My dog ate Sabre-Leaved Hottentot Fig — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take sabre-leaved hottentot fig 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 sabre-leaved hottentot fig — FAQ

Is sabre-leaved hottentot fig poisonous to dogs?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Sabre-Leaved Hottentot Fig (Carpobrotus acinaciformis) as mildly toxic to dogs. Carpobrotus acinaciformis is not listed by the ASPCA, and the closely related C. edulis is generally not considered highly toxic. However, the sap contains oxalic acid and irritant compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation in dogs and cats if ingested or contacted. Classify as mildly toxic and keep pets away from the plant as a precaution.

How serious is it if my dog ate sabre-leaved hottentot fig?

Sabre-Leaved Hottentot Fig 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. Carpobrotus acinaciformis is not listed by the ASPCA, and the closely related C. edulis is generally not considered highly toxic. However, the sap contains oxalic acid and irritant compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation in dogs and cats if ingested or contacted. Classify as mildly toxic and keep pets away from the plant as a precaution. 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 sabre-leaved hottentot fig well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.

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