Is String of Pearls Toxic to Dogs? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, string of pearls is mildly toxic to dogs

String of pearls is a trailing succulent in the Senecio family, which contains irritating compounds. Eating it usually causes mild stomach upset. Its dangling "beads" can attract cats, so hang it well out of reach.

String of Pearls and dogs: key facts

Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Curio rowleyanus (Senecio rowleyanus)
Also called	string of beads, rosary vine
Toxic compound	Unidentified irritant compounds
Toxic parts	All parts
Signs usually start	Usually within a few hours
Plant type	Houseplant

Symptoms of string of pearls poisoning in dogs

Vomiting
Diarrhea
Drooling
Lethargy
Skin irritation

Why string of pearls is toxic to dogs

The specific toxin has not been well characterized, but the plant irritates the gut and sometimes the skin.

What to do if your dog ate string of pearls

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, drooling. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.

Treatment and outlook

Supportive care is usually enough. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day.

How to keep your dog away from string of pearls

Place string of pearls 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 string of pearls

If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for dogs.

String of Pearls and dogs: FAQ

Is string of pearls poisonous to dogs?

String of Pearls is mildly toxic to dogs. Unidentified irritant compounds can cause vomiting and diarrhea, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of string of pearls is toxic to dogs?

All parts.

Can dogs die from eating string of pearls?

It is very unlikely. String of Pearls usually causes mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.

How long after eating string of pearls will my dog show symptoms?

Usually within a few hours.

Is string of pearls toxic to cats too?

Yes, string of pearls is mildly toxic to cats.

Other plants toxic to dogs

Sources

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.

Is String of Pearls Toxic to Dogs?