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Is Meadow Phlox toxic to dogs?

Phlox maculata

Mildly toxic to dogs

Mildly. The ASPCA lists meadow phlox 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. Phlox maculata is not specifically cited by ASPCA in its toxicity database, but Phlox species as a group may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested by dogs or cats. Not considered severely toxic; contact with the sap may cause mild skin irritation. Discourage grazing by pets as a precaution.

What to do if your dog ate meadow phlox

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

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

Is meadow phlox toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is meadow phlox toxic to dogs?

Mildly. The ASPCA lists meadow phlox 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. Phlox maculata is not specifically cited by ASPCA in its toxicity database, but Phlox species as a group may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested by dogs or cats. Not considered severely toxic; contact with the sap may cause mild skin irritation. Discourage grazing by pets as a precaution.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats meadow phlox?

Phlox maculata is not specifically cited by ASPCA in its toxicity database, but Phlox species as a group may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested by dogs or cats. Not considered severely toxic; contact with the sap may cause mild skin irritation. Discourage grazing by pets as a precaution. 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 meadow phlox.

What should I do if my dog ate meadow phlox?

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 meadow phlox toxic to cats too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Meadow Phlox is mildly toxic to cats as well. See the full meadow phlox pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a dog-safe alternative to meadow phlox?

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 meadow phlox pet-safety