Yes, kalanchoe is toxic to dogs
Kalanchoe is a common flowering succulent that contains bufadienolides, a type of cardiac glycoside. Most pets only vomit, but large amounts can affect the heart.
Kalanchoe and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | Toxic |
| Scientific name | Kalanchoe spp. |
| Also called | mother-in-law plant, devil's backbone, chandelier plant, mother of millions |
| Toxic compound | Cardiac glycosides |
| Toxic parts | All parts |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Houseplant |
Symptoms of kalanchoe poisoning in dogs
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abnormal heart rhythm (rare, with large amounts)
- Weakness
Why kalanchoe is toxic to dogs
Cardiac glycosides work like an overdose of the heart drug digoxin. They block a pump that heart cells need to control their rhythm, which can cause a dangerously slow or irregular heartbeat, high blood potassium and sudden collapse. The toxin is present in every part of the plant and in water the plant has stood in.
What to do if your dog ate kalanchoe
- Remove plant pieces from your dog's mouth and move dogs away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
- Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
- Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
- Do not make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm.
- Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal heart rhythm. Do not wait for these signs before getting help.
Treatment and outlook
This is an emergency. Vets decontaminate (vomiting and activated charcoal, often repeated), give IV fluids, monitor the heart with an ECG, and treat arrhythmias. Digoxin-specific antibody fragments are used in severe cases.
How to keep your dog away from kalanchoe
- Place kalanchoe on high shelves or in hanging planters out of reach of paws and tails, or in a room your dog cannot enter.
- Give your dog something better to chew: chew toys and puzzle feeders reduce boredom chewing.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
Pet-safe alternatives to kalanchoe
If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA:
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
- BambooNon-toxic
- CalatheasNon-toxic
- FernsNon-toxic
- Areca PalmsNon-toxic
- African VioletsNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for dogs.
Kalanchoe and dogs: FAQ
Is kalanchoe poisonous to dogs?
Kalanchoe is toxic to dogs. Vomiting and Diarrhea are common, and larger amounts can cause more serious illness. Call your vet if your dog ate any.
What part of kalanchoe is toxic to dogs?
All parts.
Can dogs die from eating kalanchoe?
Deaths are uncommon, but large amounts can cause serious illness. Call your vet promptly.
How long after eating kalanchoe will my dog show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Is kalanchoe toxic to cats too?
Yes, kalanchoe is toxic to cats.
Other plants toxic to dogs
- DaffodilsToxic
- MistletoeToxic
- AmaryllisToxic
- CyclamenToxic
- AzaleasHighly toxic
- OleanderHighly toxic
- Sago PalmsHighly toxic
- FoxgloveHighly toxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Dogs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonous Plants
Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your dog's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.