Yes, rubber plants are mildly toxic to dogs
Rubber plants have a latex sap that irritates the mouth, stomach and skin. Poisoning is usually mild.
Rubber Plants and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Ficus elastica |
| Also called | rubber tree, rubber fig, India rubber plant |
| Toxic compound | Irritant latex (ficin and ficusin) |
| Toxic parts | Milky sap in the leaves and stems |
| Signs usually start | Within minutes to hours |
| Plant type | Houseplant |
Symptoms of rubber plants poisoning in dogs
- Mouth irritation
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Skin irritation from the sap
Why rubber plants are toxic to dogs
Ficus plants have a milky latex sap containing proteolytic enzymes and psoralens that irritate the mouth, stomach and skin.
What to do if your dog ate rubber plants
- 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 mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.
Treatment and outlook
Rinse the mouth and wash any sap off the skin. Signs are usually mild and need only supportive care.
How to keep your dog away from rubber plants
- Place rubber plants 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 rubber plants
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.
Rubber Plants and dogs: FAQ
Are rubber plants poisonous to dogs?
Rubber Plants are mildly toxic to dogs. Irritant latex (ficin and ficusin) can cause mouth irritation and drooling, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of rubber plants is toxic to dogs?
Milky sap in the leaves and stems.
Can dogs die from eating rubber plants?
It is very unlikely. Rubber Plants usually cause mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.
How long after eating rubber plants will my dog show symptoms?
Within minutes to hours.
Are rubber plants toxic to cats too?
Yes, rubber plants are mildly toxic to cats.
Other plants toxic to dogs
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- CarnationsMildly toxic
- DaisiesMildly toxic
- ChrysanthemumsMildly toxic
- Baby's BreathMildly 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.