Is Ranunculus aquatilis toxic to dogs?

Yes — ranunculus aquatilis is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. The ASPCA lists Buttercup (Ranunculus spp.) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is protoanemonin, an irritant released when the plant is chewed or crushed; signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhoea, hypersalivation, oral ulcers, depression, anorexia and an unsteady gait. Keep pets and grazing animals away from this water buttercup.

The ASPCA lists Buttercup (Ranunculus spp.) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The toxic principle is protoanemonin, an irritant released when the plant is chewed or crushed; signs of ingestion include vomiting, diarrhoea, hypersalivation, oral ulcers, depression, anorexia and an unsteady gait. Keep pets and grazing animals away from this water buttercup. 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 ranunculus aquatilis.

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.

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

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.