Is Whorled Milkweed toxic to dogs?

Yes — whorled milkweed is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. Toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The ASPCA lists milkweed (Asclepias) as toxic; some species contain cardiotoxins (steroidal glycosidic cardenolides) and others neurotoxins. Whorled milkweed in particular is noted for higher toxicity to livestock. Signs include vomiting, depression, weakness, diarrhoea, and in severe cases seizures, breathing difficulty and death.

Toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The ASPCA lists milkweed (Asclepias) as toxic; some species contain cardiotoxins (steroidal glycosidic cardenolides) and others neurotoxins. Whorled milkweed in particular is noted for higher toxicity to livestock. Signs include vomiting, depression, weakness, diarrhoea, and in severe cases seizures, breathing difficulty and death. 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 whorled milkweed.

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: Whorled Milkweed is toxic to cats as well. See the full whorled milkweed 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.