You might want to immediately start removing the cactus spines, but its usually best to inspect the dog and determine the affected areas before pulling out any spines. Unfortunately, our pets can get the spines (needles) of cacti stuck in their eyes, mouth, feet, ears and many other places. So what should you do in case your dog eats a cactus? Even non-toxic plants can cause gastrointestinal upset when ingested, especially for pets with sensitive stomachs. The spines on the cactus can also cause puncture wounds, so its important to keep your dog away from these plants. Tocombate the cactus needles with the teeth between the cactus and the skin, slide a pair of dental tweezers between the cactus and the skin. The spines enter the skin and create an opening for bacteria. Most cactus are not poisonous or dangerous to kids, however there are a few exceptions. Dogs cannot eat cactus. There are a number of varieties of jadeand all should be kept out of reach of pets. Some members of the succulent family are toxic. Check all parts, including the tail, as doing so will ensure your dog is properly treated. If the needles are lodged in the mouth or eyes of your dog, seek veterinary assistance. While most cacti plants arent poisonous to your pet, the chemical composition of the cacti sap can cause gastrointestinal ailments to your little canine friend. As a result, it may lead to bruising, shedding blood, and dying tissues. This ingredient is toxic to dogs and cats, causing vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and lethargy. When it is finished, you can remove the needles and peel off the glue. If your pet does end up eating one of your nontoxic plants, or happens to eat a plant that could be poisonous while on a walk or while visiting a friends home, the best thing you can do is to first identify the plant. Lucky for you (and your furry friend), this article addresses what pet parents need to do when their dogs eat cacti. Some cactus species may cause vomiting in pets if ingested. Applying a thin layer of glue over the area is a good idea (Elmers Glue works fine). Here Is Why your Christmas Cactus Doesnt Bloom, Where To Place Your Cactus To Ensure Good Feng Shui, How Are Desert Plants Adapted To Survive In A Desert, 11 Types of Monkey Tail Cactus You Can Grow At Home, 10 Amazing Large Cactus Plants With Names, 9 Types Of Haworthia For The Beginning Gardener, Rashes on the skin accompanied by moderate pain. The answer to this question is that most of the cacti species are not poisonous. You dont need to have vet-like expertise to remove cactus spines from your dog. Although it is an appealing plant, it is critical to remember that the pencil cactus, a member of the Euphorbia genus, is poisonous to cats and dogs. Your pet mayalso salivate or foam at the mouth if spines have penetrated that area. This pet health content was reviewed for accuracy by a veterinarian, Dr. Pippa Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS. Your veterinarian should contact you as soon as possible if your pet exhibits any symptoms of ingestion of a cactus plant. Why does a dog eat hard-shelled cacti? Disclaimer: The author is not a medical doctor or veterinarian. All varieties should be kept away from pets. If youre still reading, chances are your canine companion had an encounter with cacti that he sadly lost. The succulent, fleshy nature of a cactus, coupled with its spiky, extra sharp thorns means its likely to attract the attention of your dog, especially if you recently added a cactus to your home, indoors or outdoors. (Is It Safe), Can Dogs Eat Artichokes? The spines on the cactus can also cause serious puncture wounds. Christmas cactus, one of the popular house plants, does not pose a risk to dogs, and the pads of prickly pear cacti, which are used in Mexican cuisine, are safe to eat in moderation. In most cases, you can get rid of the needles by simply using a small-tooth comb. The third step is to place the thorns in a bowl of water to keep them from getting lost. Here are 10 facts you should consider before getting a cactus for your indoor or outdoor garden. Be careful the spines can become dislodged and stick into your skin. Trager claims that a slight brush can cause glochids to fall and get stuck in the skin, making it difficult to remove them. A number of factors must be taken into account before you can be sure that leaving cactus needles on your skin is not harmful. There may have been damage to the areoles of a cactus without spines. These plants have long been cultivated in Mexico for their edible fruits and natural sweeteners, and their use as food has long been practiced there. Christmas cactus contains no poisonous chemicals and is not poisonous to humans, cats, or dogs. Cactus thorns can be a real nuisance for any dog owner. Dr. Jennifer Freeman, a vet at Petsmart, insists that dogs should be handled with care and assessed phase by phase to determine the problem areas after an injury. . Nonetheless, you need to make sure that your dog doesnt eat the cactus plant since you dont want to take such risks. While you wait, spread glue some recommend rubber cement, others recommend Elmers glue or something similar on the area where you believe the needles or glochids are still present. But, the spines can injure your dog if it tries to eat cactus, and the sap of cactus plants makes dogs hypersensitive. Using adhesive tape, such as duct tape, can be used to remove small cactus spines that are stuck to the skin. You shouldnt attempt to remove the cactus spines without a helping hand, so call another family member or a friend to hold the dog in place as you remove the spines. Moreover, dogs are natural scavengers, and when you see your little friend fighting for that piece of pizza from garbage even after you just fed him with some high-quality food, it shouldnt surprise you at all. Our Fit Pets: My Dog Ate a Cactus What Should I Do. Apart from eating the cactus plant, your pet can also get the spines (needles) of cacti stuck in their mouth, feet, coat, eyes, and ears. You should avoid positioning the cacti in some places like the living room or your kitchen. Almost all cacti have needles, though the majority do not fall out. The number one cause of the most common species of snake plant death is overwatering. A coarse comb can come in handy when removing spines that are loosely lodged on your dogs coat. If you have glochidia, particularly if you have a swollen lip, tongue, or mouth, you are at risk of getting the needles stuck. It is, in my opinion, difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Cactus plants are not poisonous to dogs. However, heart arrhythmias can also occur. Remember to disinfect the tweezers after removing the spines to avoid infecting the wounds. If these symptoms fail to go away several hours or even days after the initial home treatment, then taking him for a consultation at the vet might be the ideal option. If this method fails, you should use tweezers to remove clumps of spines, then apply a thin layer of glue over the clumps with gauze. After removal and/or treatment, check the entry points for infection and apply antibiotic ointment as needed. When cactus spines are not completely removed, they can cause complications such as inflammation, infection, toxin-mediated reactions, allergic reactions, and granuloma formation. This stem is covered with thick spines that curve downwards, and make the cacti look a bit like a squiggly tail. If you discover any of these signs and suspect that your pet consumed cacti, make sure that you contact your veterinary officer for immediate assistance. The importance of having an extra pair of hands cannot be overstated. I also have extensive knowledge of plant life, soil health, and garden design, and I'm always eager to share my knowledge with others. Try as much as you can to brush in the direction of how the fur grows, but remember to brush gently to avoid hurting your dog further. When a dog eats cactus, the first thing you should do is see a veterinarian. You cant do much to help your dog before determining the affected areas. First, all dogs are naturally curious, and they love to taste everything that comes their way. It does not matter if your pet considers Christmas cactus to be a treat for his teeth rather than his eyes and eats it. The Beautiful And Misunderstood Yucca: Not A Cactus But Just As Drought-Tolerant! It is best to know the plants in your home and if a pet ingests an unknown plant, look it up immediately for potential toxicity and call your veterinarian immediately. But non-toxic doesn't mean harmless, says Margot Vahrenwald,. The snake plant is an excellent indoor plant, but can still die. What is this? A pierced cactus needle should be treated as a puncture wound. Examine the dogs entire body for any small hairs like thorns that may have sprouted from its skin. Cactus Way: Are Cactus Plants Poisonous to Dogs? If you have pets, it is best to avoid any plant in the euphorbia genus, including the poisonous poinsettia. Still, there are several threats for desert and Antarcticas plants, including erosion, global warming, and human involvement. Signs of cacti ingestion in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, appetite loss, stomach pain, excessive salivation, and nausea. Most cacti will be safe for dogs, even if they do take a bite. At first sight, a cactus might appear like a filling meal due to its fleshy leaves. This method will remove the majority of the thorns, and it can be used on any size of thorn. Thus, it is your responsibility to ensure that you dont bring anything toxic into your home that could harm your dog. If you have a dog that is prone to chewing on plants, it is best to keep these cacti out of reach. Parasites are the main culprits and if you suspect that your pet has developed some health issues dont hesitate to take him/her to the veterinary officer. Learn how to look after your plant and it will bring you a lifetime of enjoyment. There are actually three types of Christmas cactus: Schlumbergera Truncata, Schumbelgera Bridgesii, and Rhipsalidopsis Gaertnerii. Ingestion of pine needles can cause gastrointestinal signs and . If your dog has the spines in different areas of the body, it is advisable that you apply antibiotic ointment in one section of the body before moving on to another area. Most cacti arent poisonous when consumed by dogs. The bottom line: Most succulents wont harm pets if ingested, but there are a few toxic varieties that pet owners and veterinarians need to be aware of. It is prized by rodents such as rats, gophers, and ground squirrels, in addition to cacti. The process of removing cactus spines from your dog should be hygienic. Apply a bandage and antibiotic ointment over the area to help prevent infection. Is There Poison in Cactus Spines? If you suspect your pet has swallowed a poisonous cactus, you should consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible. Some use tweezers while others who have hunting dogs prefer [easyazon_link asin=B000W1Y9YU locale=US new_window=default nofollow=default tag=petsadvi-20 add_to_cart=default cloaking=default localization=default popups=default]hemostats[/easyazon_link]. As an Amazon Associate, we may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on this page. Cactus spines are modified leaves that can be found on most cacti. Start with a coarse comb to remove loose spines, but watch out blood mayspurt out of anentry point, so keep a styptic stick and gauze at the ready. If dogs are allowed to consume cacti, they are not poisonous. First, you should sanitize the affected area with rubbing alcohol or an antiseptic. Make sure the entry points are well-lit and that no blood spurts out by using a coarse comb to remove any loose needles, as well as having a styptic stick and gauze ready. Continue reading to learn interesting facts about cacti and dogs. Flowers can be creamy to yellow in color, with a red center, Each cactus species is well adapted to growing in specific areas that experience a certain climate, Generally, most cacti species grow in hot and dry regions in North and South America but not only, we are here to explain. While the sharp spines of the cactus are harmless to the dog, they can cause pain if the dog is fascinated by them. Is coconut oil toxic to dogs? Jade plants have thick, woody stems and plump, oval leaves, giving them a tree-like appearance. In fact, a heavy infestation of cacti spines may require immediate veterinary attention. If your dog eats a succulent, it may vomit or develop diarrhea. If the pain persists or the wound becomes red, swollen, or warm, seek medical attention as soon as possible. (We Asked the Experts), Can Dogs Eat Basil? You can eat cacti if you want to, but they are not poisonous and will not harm your pets. You can identify a plant by looking at its foliage. Cactus spines are not poisonous for humans or animals. If your dog has stomach pain or diarrhea, you should take him to the veterinarian. It is recommended that the spines be allowed to dry before being peeled away. Some cactus, such as prickly pear, are toxic to dogs if consumed and can cause pets to . Jade Monkey Tails are drought tolerant and low maintenance, perfect for anyone new to gardening. Although not common, the sap of the cactus plant might lead to allergic reactions when consumed, especially if your dog has a sensitive tummy. Duct tape should be stretched over the affected area and gently pressed down onto your skin to remove the cactus needles. The African Spear Plant: A Unique And Hardy Succulent, Discover The Fascinating Process Of Cactus Reproduction Through Spines, Discover The Zip Code Of Cactus Texas: 79013, Unlock The Protein Power Of Cacti: Discover The Nutritional Benefits Of This Versatile Plant, The Edibility Of Cactus Fruit Seeds: Benefits Preparation And Consumption, Bring Your Rotting Coral Cactus Back To Life: Identifying And Restoring Tips, The Secret To A Healthy Christmas Cactus: Tips For Caring For Your Vibrant Holiday Plant, Shape Your Cactus: Learn How To Train Your Cactus To Grow In Any Direction. Bacteria can be killed more effectively by UV rays on the spines surface. You can get the expertise you need from doctors, lawyers, veterinarians, mechanics, and other specialists in just a few clicks with JustAnswer. Its also important to note that any plant, toxic or not, can cause problems for pets. Remember the fact that it is your responsibility to protect your pet at all times. Popular as a houseplant, this tropical succulent is known by a number of nicknames, including devils backbone, mother of millions, and mother-in-law plant. As a result, they may have some negative effects on your dogs health, in addition to the following: Pesticides and fertilizers contain chemicals that can be harmful to your health. However, glochids, or tiny barbed spines found on cacti, which are difficult to see, can cause severe itching and irritation. Are Hydrangeas Poisonous to Cats and Dogs? If needles have been inserted into your pets mouth, he or she may also salivate or foam. If the condition is severe, the spines may need to be removed by a doctor. Some of the drawbacks of keeping a Christmas cactus at home include poor drainage and poor food choices. Read on to find out critical facts about the cactus plant and dogs. Nonetheless, if your dog consumes large, hard spines of cacti, you should seek immediate medical attention. Allow the glue to dry for about an hour after it has dried by covering it with gauze. Tweezers can be a good option if you are unable to remove them all. Depending on where a spine is stuck, loosening or removing the spine may cause excessive or continuous bleeding. There is some debate on whether or not cactus needles are poisonous to dogs, as some sources claim that they are while others claim that they are not. Make sure that your pet does not try to remove the needles with his mouth or with his or her legs by running into a cactus. Flowers and Plants That Are Safe for Dogs, Natural Ways to Treat and Kill Fleas in Grass. That is not to say you should go feeding your dog Christmas cactus leaves, however. Not all eye punctures require surgery, but visible spines and even micro spines maybe present in the eye and require extreme care upon removal. I'm Normandi, a passionate gardener and botanic expert with over 15 years of experience in the field. Before you start the removal process (if doing it yourself), havesome antibiotic ointment on hand along with your removal tool of choice. Consider doing your research first before adding one to your home; if you do your homework, you should be able to choose the one that is best for your needs. However, a spinal puncture can penetrate deep into the skin and even reach the collagen and muscles. But as your furry friend will likely find out the hard way, cacti are one of those plants that should be avoided at all costs. A cacti family is a group of plants found in the plant group Succulent. Certain plants can contain chemicals that could be harmful to your pets health. 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