Are Snake Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Are snake plants toxic to dogs?

Unfortunately, snake plants are toxic to dogs. They contain saponins, which cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs when ingested. In extreme cases (particularly if a dog consumes a large amount or has a preexisting condition), it could cause dehydration, difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and weakness.

As a pet owner, knowing which plants in your house are safe or hazardous will help you provide a safe environment for your dogs. 

In this article, we will discuss the symptoms to look out for if you have a snake plant, helpful home remedies, and offer other pet-safe alternatives for your home.

How toxic are snake plants to dogs?

Snake plants are moderately toxic to dogs. The ASPCA places it in the same category as carnations. 

If your dog ingests a snake plant, some common symptoms to watch for are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Mild fatigue
• Mild irritation of the mouth, tongue, or lips.

In extreme cases, especially in smaller dogs or those with underlying health issues, it can lead to:

• Excessive vomiting or diarrhea (leading to dehydration)
• Difficulty breathing (due to throat or mouth irritation)
• Severe lethargy or weakness
• Drop in blood pressure

If you suspect your dog has eaten a snake plant or see any of these symptoms highlighted, here are some immediate steps you can take at home.

• Start by removing access to the plant so that your dog doesn’t eat any more of it.
• Gently rinse your dog’s mouth with water to remove plant residue.
• If your dog is vomiting, hold off on feeding it for about 6 hours, but make sure it has access to fresh water. Hydration is important when your dog is vomiting or stooling.
• After fasting, feed your dog a bit of bland boiled chicken until the stomach normalizes.

If your dog isn’t vomiting, don’t panic or induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet. If you notice any signs of weakness or if the symptoms persist for more than a few hours, see your vet immediately.

Common Alternate Names for Snake Plants

Although snake plants are scientifically known as Sansevieria trifasciata, several alternate names have existed over the years. Don't be fooled by these other names for snake plants so you can keep their toxic leaves away from dogs in your home. You might know snake plants as

• Viper’s Bowstring Hemp
• Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
• Saint George's Sword
• Golden Bird's Nest
• Good Luck Plant
• African Spear

Are snake plants toxic to both cats and dogs?

Yes, the leaves of snake plants are mild to moderately toxic to cats and dogs. They contain saponins, which cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested in small quantities. If ingested in large quantities, more severe reactions can include lethargy, difficulty in breathing, and a drop in blood pressure.

The way it works is that the saponins in snake plants (natural compounds with anti-fungal properties) interact with lipids, which are essential components of cell membranes.

This interaction disrupts the normal function of the cell membranes in the gastrointestinal tract of a dog, leading to irritation and other symptoms. When ingested in large quantities, this disruption affects other body systems and causes more severe pet reactions that may require medical care.

Snake plant pet-safe alternatives

The most practical way to prevent your dog from chewing on a toxic houseplant is to choose non-toxic plants. This will give you peace of mind, knowing that there’s nothing to worry about. Here are some pet-safe plants that make great alternatives to snake plants. A bonus is that they thrive with minimal water (like snake plants do).

• Spider plant: A popular houseplant known for their arching, grass-like leaves that are often striped in green and white. They resemble the snake plant in their leaf shape but add a playful touch with their baby "spiderettes" that dangle from the main plant. These offshoots can look charming on a hanging planter or high shelf. They’re also low-maintenance and can tolerate occasional neglect, making them great if you have a busy household.

• Areca palm: Also known as butterfly palm, they are elegant plants with feathery, arching fronds that bring a tropical vibe to your home. Their soft, delicate appearance and bushy growth pattern make them ideal for bright, indirect light areas. They’re low-maintenance and only need occasional watering and a bit of humidity to thrive.
• Boston fern: Lush and full, with delicate, feathery fronds that create a soft, airy look. They’re perfect for adding a touch of greenery to a space, especially in bright, indirect light. Boston ferns prefer a humid environment, so they do well in bathrooms or with regular misting. Although Boston ferns require a bit more water and humidity than snake plants, their vibrant appearance makes the extra care worth it.

• Parlor palm: Compact and elegant with slender, arching fronds that add a touch of sophistication to any room. They’re perfect for smaller spaces and can adapt well to low to bright, indirect light. They don’t need frequent watering, making them relatively easy to care for.
• Bamboo palm: They are tall, with a clumping growth habit mimicking a bamboo. Their slender, arching leaves create a tropical feel, and they do well in bright, indirect light. They prefer moist soil but are forgiving if you forget to water. As a bonus, bamboo palms are great at purifying indoor air.

• Haworthia: Small, rosette-shaped succulents with fleshy, geometric-patterned leaves that make them an interesting addition to any plant collection. They’re compact and ideal for smaller spaces or as a desk plant. They are drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering and thriving in bright, indirect light.

• Ponytail palm: Quirky and charming with their bulbous trunk and long, cascading, curly leaves that resemble a ponytail. They are incredibly drought-tolerant and thrive with minimal watering.

How toxic are snake plants to dogs?

While snake plants are known for their beauty and air-purifying benefits, their potential toxicity to pets can make them a dangerous houseplant for dogs. Remember that snake plants are toxic to dogs only if ingested and cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, veterinary attention may be needed - consult a veterinarian if your dog’s health is at risk.

In theory, you can keep the snake plant in your home if your dog doesn’t chew on it or if it’s placed out of reach. However, many dogs (especially puppies) are curious and agile. It would be important not to leave an active dog unsupervised in a room with a snake plant in reach. The best bet for dog owners is to choose nontoxic plants like a spider plant or boston fern to protect dogs from the toxic snake plant leaves.