Are String of Pearls Toxic to Dogs? What You Need to Know

The string of pearls plant, also known as Senecio rowleyanus, has become an increasingly popular houseplant over the recent years. With its trailing stems and round, bead-like leaves, it’s easy to see why this succulent is so trendy in home decor.

But if you’re a dog owner, you may be wondering – is this plant actually safe to have around pets?

Unfortunately, the answer is no. String of pearls is toxic and potentially deadly to dogs if ingested. Here’s what you need to know about the dangers of this plant for canine companions.

An Overview of String of Pearls Toxicity in Dogs

While the string of pearls plant may look charming and harmless it contains a toxin called pyrrolizidine alkaloid that can be very dangerous to dogs if eaten.

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are found in over 6,000 plants worldwide, and they disrupt normal cell function in the liver. Dogs are especially susceptible to pyrrolizidine alkaloid poisoning.

Ingestion of string of pearls can cause a wide range of symptoms in dogs, from mild vomiting and diarrhea to potentially fatal liver failure or clotting disorders. Even small exposures over time can lead to irreversible liver damage.

So while just a nibble here or there of a string of pearls plant may not seem like a big deal, the cumulative effects of the toxin can be severe for dogs. It’s crucial to keep this plant completely away from curious canines.

What Happens if a Dog Eats String of Pearls?

If a dog ingests part of a string of pearls plant, either by eating the leaves or stem, they are likely to show symptoms of toxicity.

The most common symptoms include:

• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Abdominal pain

In more severe poisoning cases, dogs may experience:

• Liver damage or failure
• Internal bleeding
• Neurological symptoms like disorientation, seizures or coma
• Blood clotting disorders
• Kidney disorders

The onset of symptoms is usually quite rapid, within an hour of ingestion. Immediate veterinary treatment is vital to prevent lasting organ damage or even death.

Are All Parts of the String of Pearls Toxic?

The entire string of pearls plant should be considered toxic to dogs. The poisonous compounds are found throughout:

• Leaves
• Stems
• Flowers
• Seeds
• Sap

So even just getting sap on their skin from brushing against the plant could cause a reaction in some sensitive dogs. It’s best to keep all parts of the string of pearls fully inaccessible.

How Much is Deadly?

The amount of string of pearls that is deadly depends on the size of the dog. As little as 1-2 leaves or a couple inches of stem can potentially be fatal for a small dog.

For medium or large dogs, a larger volume of 5-10 leaves may be toxic. But any amount has risks and Veterinarians recommend keeping dogs away from string of pearls entirely.

Are Cats also at Risk?

While dogs are especially vulnerable to string of pearls toxicity, cats are also at risk if they ingest the plant. Similar symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy can occur.

Cats tend to be more finicky eaters, but the plant should still be kept out of reach of felines as well. Any exposure should be treated by a Veterinarian promptly.

Veterinary Treatment of String of Pearls Poisoning

If your dog eats any part of a string of pearls plant, take them to the Veterinarian or animal ER immediately. Rapid treatment is essential.

Depending on the severity of symptoms, the Veterinarian may induce vomiting to expel the plant from the stomach. Activated charcoal may be given to absorb toxins internally.

IV fluids, anti-nausea medication, liver protectants, vitamin K, and blood products may also be administered. Treatment focuses on supporting organ function and preventing further poisoning.

In severe toxicity cases with liver failure or clotting disorders, hospitalization in intensive care and a guarded prognosis are likely. Quick action is imperative to try to reverse the poisoning before permanent damage occurs.

Keeping Dogs Safe from String of Pearls

The only sure way to prevent string of pearls toxicity in dogs is keeping the plant completely out of reach.

Here are some tips to protect your pup:

• Choose a non-toxic alternative plant. There are many dog-safe options for hanging trailing houseplants.

• If you do keep string of pearls, place it somewhere up high that dogs cannot access, like on a high shelf. Keep it away from windowsills.

• Hang the plant up high out of reach. Place a physical barrier underneath it.

• Trim the strings back regularly so they don’t trail low enough for dogs to grab.

• Put the plant in an enclosed terrarium if you want to display it lower down.

• Monitor your dog closely when they are near houseplants to prevent snacking.

• Train your dog to avoid chewing on plants in general. Provide plenty of safe chew toys instead.

The Bottom Line

While the string of pearls plant has surged in popularity as a houseplant, it can be very toxic and dangerous for dogs. The entire plant contains compounds that can be poisonous.

Ingestion can lead to symptoms ranging from vomiting to liver failure and death in severe cases. It’s essential to keep string of pearls completely inaccessible to curious canines.

If you believe your dog has eaten any amount of the plant, seek emergency Veterinary treatment right away to try to prevent serious, lasting health consequences. Prevention is key when it comes to this deceivingly deadly succulent.