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Is Canadian Lousewort toxic to dogs?

Pedicularis canadensis

Mildly toxic to dogs

Mildly. The ASPCA lists canadian lousewort as mildly toxic to dogs — a chewing dog typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. Pedicularis canadensis contains phenylpropanoid glycosides and mild alkaloids that may cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in significant quantities. As a hemiparasite it can also absorb toxic compounds (alkaloids, pyrrolizidine alkaloids) from host plants, making toxicity variable. It is not listed by the ASPCA; classified as mildly toxic as a precaution. Consult a vet if a pet ingests any part of the plant.

What to do if your dog ate canadian lousewort

  1. Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and move canadian lousewort out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of canadian lousewort to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your dog has eaten canadian lousewort, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is canadian lousewort toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is canadian lousewort toxic to dogs?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists canadian lousewort as mildly toxic to dogs — a chewing dog typically gets mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a medical emergency, but it is still best kept out of reach. Pedicularis canadensis contains phenylpropanoid glycosides and mild alkaloids that may cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in significant quantities. As a hemiparasite it can also absorb toxic compounds (alkaloids, pyrrolizidine alkaloids) from host plants, making toxicity variable. It is not listed by the ASPCA; classified as mildly toxic as a precaution. Consult a vet if a pet ingests any part of the plant.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats canadian lousewort?

Pedicularis canadensis contains phenylpropanoid glycosides and mild alkaloids that may cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in significant quantities. As a hemiparasite it can also absorb toxic compounds (alkaloids, pyrrolizidine alkaloids) from host plants, making toxicity variable. It is not listed by the ASPCA; classified as mildly toxic as a precaution. Consult a vet if a pet ingests any part of the plant. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your dog has had access to canadian lousewort.

What should I do if my dog ate canadian lousewort?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your dog's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

Is canadian lousewort toxic to cats too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Canadian Lousewort is mildly toxic to cats as well. See the full canadian lousewort pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a dog-safe alternative to canadian lousewort?

For a similar look without the risk, see the best dogs-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Full canadian lousewort pet-safety