Pet emergency
My dog ate Weeping fig — what to do
Step by step
- Take weeping fig 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 weeping fig — FAQ
Is weeping fig poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) as mildly toxic to dogs. ASPCA lists Ficus benjamina as toxic to cats and dogs due to ficin and ficusin in the milky sap. Skin contact can cause dermatitis in pets and sensitive people.
How serious is it if my dog ate weeping fig?
Weeping 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. ASPCA lists Ficus benjamina as toxic to cats and dogs due to ficin and ficusin in the milky sap. Skin contact can cause dermatitis in pets and sensitive people. 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?
Move weeping fig well out of reach, or replace it with a pet-safe look-alike — good dog-safe swaps include money tree, areca palm, parlor palm, all ASPCA non-toxic. See pet-safe alternatives to weeping fig.
Related
- Is weeping fig toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Weeping fig and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide
- Pet-safe alternatives to weeping fig