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Pet safety

Is Umbrella Plant toxic to dogs?

Schefflera actinophylla

Toxic to dogs

Yes — umbrella plant 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. ASPCA lists Schefflera (umbrella tree) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalates; chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, lips and tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets.

What to do if your dog ate umbrella plant

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

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

Is umbrella plant toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is umbrella plant toxic to dogs?

Yes — umbrella plant is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Schefflera (umbrella tree) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalates; chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, lips and tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats umbrella plant?

ASPCA lists Schefflera (umbrella tree) as toxic to cats and dogs. The toxic principle is insoluble calcium oxalates; chewing causes oral irritation, intense burning of the mouth, lips and tongue, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets. 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 umbrella plant.

What should I do if my dog ate umbrella plant?

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 umbrella plant toxic to cats too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Umbrella Plant is toxic to cats as well. See the full umbrella plant pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a dog-safe alternative to umbrella plant?

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 umbrella plant pet-safety