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Pet safety

Is Creeping fig toxic to dogs?

Ficus pumila

Toxic to dogs

Yes — creeping fig is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. The ASPCA classifies fig (Ficus) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, with the milky sap containing the proteolytic enzyme ficin and the photosensitising compound ficusin (psoralen), causing gastrointestinal and dermal irritation. NC State Extension specifically lists Ficus pumila as a problem for cats, dogs, and horses, and the RHS flags it as a skin allergen. Keep it away from pets and wear gloves when pruning, as the sap can irritate skin.

What to do if your dog ate creeping fig

  1. Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and move creeping fig 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 creeping fig to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

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

Is creeping fig toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is creeping fig toxic to dogs?

Yes — creeping fig is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA classifies fig (Ficus) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, with the milky sap containing the proteolytic enzyme ficin and the photosensitising compound ficusin (psoralen), causing gastrointestinal and dermal irritation. NC State Extension specifically lists Ficus pumila as a problem for cats, dogs, and horses, and the RHS flags it as a skin allergen. Keep it away from pets and wear gloves when pruning, as the sap can irritate skin.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats creeping fig?

The ASPCA classifies fig (Ficus) as toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, with the milky sap containing the proteolytic enzyme ficin and the photosensitising compound ficusin (psoralen), causing gastrointestinal and dermal irritation. NC State Extension specifically lists Ficus pumila as a problem for cats, dogs, and horses, and the RHS flags it as a skin allergen. Keep it away from pets and wear gloves when pruning, as the sap can irritate skin. 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 creeping fig.

What should I do if my dog ate creeping fig?

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 creeping fig toxic to cats too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Creeping fig is toxic to cats as well. See the full creeping fig pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a dog-safe alternative to creeping fig?

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 creeping fig pet-safety