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Fertilizers Poisoning in Dogs
Written By Michele K.
Published: 06/07/2016Updated: 04/12/2021
Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.
What is Fertilizers Poisoning?
When our canine family members come in contact with fertilizer products, the effects can range from mild to severe. Depending on the length of time of contact and how the fertilizer poisoning occurred, complications can include oral burns, stomach irritation, or severe toxicities. The accidental ingestion of fertilizer by your dog means that they have eaten a product that can possibly contain harmful substances (herbicides, fungicides, and pesticides) in addition to the compounds (phosphorous, iron, nitrogen) which are toxic when consumed in large amounts.
Along with vomiting and breathing difficulties, fertilizers can cause ulceration in the gastrointestinal tract and burns on the skin. If you suspect that your dog has eaten fertilizer, or if you have recently used the product in your garden and your dog is acting ill, take them to see a veterinarian right away.
Fertilizers used in our gardens to enhance the beauty and growth of our plants can be very toxic to our pets when ingested or exposed to the skin and mucous membranes. Quite often, the fertilizers that we use are mixed with substances that are more harmful than the fertilizers themselves. In fact, the ingestion of some products can be fatal.
There is no such thing as a one hundred percent pet safe lawn weed killer and fertilizer. If you feel that you must treat your lawn, keep your dog safely inside as you do so.
Fertilizers Poisoning Average Cost
From 48 quotes ranging from $300 - $3,000
Average Cost
$600
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Symptoms of Fertilizers Poisoning in Dogs
A case of mild exposure to fertilizer can result in burns on the pads of the feet if your pet walked through or rolled in your fertilizer application, or irritation to the mouth or eyes after consumption or inhalation of the product you used. Serious complications can become evident if your pet has ingested a large amount. Some pets find fertilizer to be palatable or may eat the product simply because of their curious nature.
- Dermal effects can be ulcerations and redness on the skin
- Ocular signs can be tearing and redness of the eyes which should be investigated further
- Without the addition of herbicides and pesticides, poisoning may cause gastrointestinal upset
- Vomiting may occur
- Diarrhea is common
- Lethargy may be apparent
- There could be abdominal pain
When there are pesticides and herbicides in the fertilizer, the effects can be very serious. For example, if iron is present, in addition to bloody diarrhea there can be liver damage, kidney damage, and heart problems. Additional signs of distress due to fertilizer poisoning containing pesticides and herbicides can include:
- Salivation
- Fever
- Breathing difficulties
- Urination
- Defecation
- Lack of coordination
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Blue or brown mucous membranes
- Seizures
- Death
Types
Fertilizer typically comes in three forms which are solid, liquid, and granular. While none of these types of fertilizer should be ingested or inhaled, there are some products labeled as "lawn fertilizer safe for pets". This means your pet can go back on the grass after a delayed period of time. Follow the manufacturer's directions exactly. In some cases, you should walk your dog on the street as opposed to playtime in the yard for a few days after applying the lawn product.
Causes of Fertilizers Poisoning in Dogs
A dog can be exposed to fertilizer by simply walking across a lawn that has been treated. Some fertilizer residues can stay in toxic form for days to weeks. Aside from the accidental ingestion of a product that the pet finds palatable, chewing on treated grass or licking the fur and feet after a dermal exposure can cause toxic effects. Some of the additives that may be present in fertilizer are:
- Iron
- Disulfoton (responsible for seizures and pancreatitis)
- Copper
- Zinc
- Phosphorous
- Ammonium (irritates skin and lungs)
- Sodium
- Calcium
- Potassium
Diagnosis of Fertilizers Poisoning in Dogs
If you suspect that your pet has come in contact with fertilizer, bring them to the veterinarian to determine the level of toxicosis. In the case of a basic fertilizer exposure, the symptoms might be mostly gastrointestinal and may resolve within a day or two. It is always best to have your pet checked at the clinic and be sure to bring along the container or product leaflet so the veterinarian can verify the ingredients of the product.
If the fertilizer contains herbicides, fungicides, or pesticides the situation may become more urgent because the toxic effects of fertilizer containing these additives can be much more severe. The veterinarian will base the diagnosis on clinical signs (vomiting, dermal ulcers) and may want to do additional urinalysis and blood testing to check toxicity levels or to look for signs of secondary illness like pancreatitis, depending on the type of fertilizer. For example:
- Rose fertilizer can contain disulfoton which can be fatal to canines
- Blood meal can have toxic levels of iron
- Bone meal can cause cement-like obstructions in the intestines
- Fertilizers containing pesticides made with organophosphates can lead to CNS symptoms, seizures, and death
Treatment of Fertilizers Poisoning in Dogs
Treatment will vary depending on factors such as the type of fertilizer exposure or ingestion, how much of the product was eaten, and how long the fertilizer was on the skin. Treatment for fertilizer poisoning in the case of additional herbicides and pesticides will vary due to the product. Many cases of fertilizer poisoning involve hospitalization, particularly if the poisoning is extensive.
The main therapy involves supportive means to stabilize your dog and control their breathing and heart rate. Other treatment steps could include medication to increase urine output and bowel movements, gastroprotectants for stomach issues, poison absorbents, and topical medicines for skin irritation.
If you plan to use lawn care products, you may be wondering how long your dog should stay off the grass after fertilizing. If you are using a dry fertilizer, keep your dog off the grass until after a rainfall. If using a wet product, the solution must be completely dry or you risk exposing your dog to toxic chemicals again. A second exposure may result in a longer treatment process, with less than favorable results for your furry buddy. All fertilizer products have very specific instructions on exposure, and it is important to follow these instructions exactly.
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Recovery of Fertilizers Poisoning in Dogs
Canine patients can recover from a fertilizer poisoning; if the effects and secondary complications were extensive, more recovery time may be needed. Dogs who have consumed a small amount of fertilizer might be back to normal in a day or two, but pets who have ingested significant amounts of a fertilizer such as blood meal or rose bush fertilizer where there could be iron, organophosphate, copper, or ammonium for instance, the recovery can be more difficult.
In the future, especially if your dog has palatability for fertilizer or a curious nature, be certain to store all garden and household products out of reach. Do not allow your pet on the lawn after treatment until all traces of any gardening product are gone. Always keep the original packaging on hand in case of accidental exposure, and follow the instructions for the product.
Fertilizers Poisoning Average Cost
From 48 quotes ranging from $300 - $3,000
Average Cost
$600
Top
Fertilizers Poisoning Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Australian Shepherd
two years
11 found this helpful
11 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
None Yet
we have a blue granular plant food in a container. I walked in and he had the plastic top to it with plant food scattered everywhere. I don't think he was eating the food just tearing the plastic top. Not sure what to do or look for. He weighs 55 lbs ballpark.
Jan. 27, 2021
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
11 Recommendations
Hello, without knowing what active ingredients are in that mixture it is hard to say if it is toxic or not. It would be best for your dog to see your vet. Some of these just a little can cause a lot of major issues.
Jan. 27, 2021
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Pit Mix
1 1/2
2 found this helpful
2 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
None
My dog ate a small amount of organic grass food about an hour ago
Sept. 27, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
2 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this platform is not set up for urgent emails.
That can be quite toxic, and I hope that she is okay. I hope that she was able to see a veterinarian if needed.
Oct. 10, 2020
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Mini schauzer
Nine Years
13 found this helpful
13 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
None
Ingested a small amount of citrus tree fertilizer
Aug. 6, 2020
Answered by Jessica N. DVM
13 Recommendations
Hello-
Thank you for your question. For potential toxin ingestion my first recommendation would be to call pet poison helpline at 855-764-7661. They will be able to tell you based on the type of fertilizer she consumed and her weight if it is toxic and can make a treatment plan for your veterinarian. Depending on their advice you may need to head to the vet as well. Take care.
Aug. 6, 2020
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Black Mouth Cur
2.5 years
11 found this helpful
11 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Itchy, Bumps, Irritated Skin, Hasn'T Urinated In The Last 24 Hours
I put out citrus fertilizer the other night and then watered. My dog likes to play in the water while the hose is on. Is it possible that he had an allergic reaction to the fertilizer? I didn't think it would be an issue as it was old so I am not sure if it will actually fertilize my tree.
Aug. 2, 2020
Answered by Dr. Sara O. DVM
11 Recommendations
Hello, It may have caused her to have an allergic reaction. You can try to give her benadryl at 1mg per pound to see if this helps. If not, it would be best for her to see your vet as she may need steroids.
Aug. 2, 2020
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Labrador Retriever
6 months
9 found this helpful
9 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Vomiting
My dog has been throwing up the last two hours. I think he ate a couple balls of fertilizer. Do I need to take him in or see is it passes?
July 24, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
9 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. Fertilizer can be quite toxic, depending on the type and the amount that was eaten. If your dog has been vomiting for 2 hours, be best to have him or her seen at an ER right away. They will be able to look at the type of fertilizer, see what might be the best treatment, and help so that your dog feels better. I hope that all goes well.
July 24, 2020
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Papillon
Isabelle
14 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Blood In Stool
We live next to an apartment building, and they must have spread granular fertilizer last night because it smelled strongly when I took my dogs out. Today, our papillon has gotten sick -- vomiting and has bloody diarrhea. I've contacted the complex to see what kind of fertilizer they're using, but this isn't the first time she's had these symptoms. Would this be fertilizer poisoning, or is this something like recurring HGE? We're taking her to the vet regardless, but I want to make sure I'm having them look at everything.
Labrador Retriever
Goldie
10 Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Lethargy
Today, I took my dog to a park so we can play some fetch. My dog drank some water from a depression on land. Whilst playing, I noticed that fertilizer is spread on grass. I called my veterinarian right away and he told me to administer 4ml Jetepar syrup. He said that it detoxifies the liver and can be administered even if you are not sure about the ingestion. My dog is currently healthy playing in our backyard.
Daniff
Drax
13 Weeks
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Sleepy
My rescue male Great Dane + Mastiff mix tore a bag of organic fertilizer open. He must have ate some.. because he threw up and has been having diarrhea. He seems to be more sleepy, or just being a puppy. However I don’t know what to do. I don’t think it’s necessary to go to the vet, as his breathing appears to be normal. I just need a treatment to help with his tummy ache. He only threw up once last night, when I found out he ate some. We’ve been giving him a lot of water aswell. I’m very worried, do you have advice?
Lhasa Apso
Ham
2 Years
1 found this helpful
1 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
No Symptoms
My husband used Greenview weed and feed on our lawn on Sunday morning. It rained all day Monday and half of the day today (Tuesday), I haven’t let my dog on the lawn of fear of poisoning from walking on any of the granules. They have been rained on for two days and the bag said it’s ok to let pet on after dry from a rain. If he picks up a granule on his paw and licks it will he get sick or will it have been long enough with all the rain. I will wash his paws when he comes in. He is a small Lhasa. Any advice would help. I feel like a never want to let him on the lawn until I don’t see one granula on the ground but that could take months
Pit bull
Simba
6 Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Lethargic
Sleepy
Our back yard was fertilized with blue granules ,we tried to keep the dog off that area but the granules blew into her area we walk her on . Like overnight she seems more mushy and has yellowish poop . Can she get poisoning from just getting it on her paws or sniffing the ground
Fertilizers Poisoning Average Cost
From 48 quotes ranging from $300 - $3,000
Average Cost
$600
Get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds!
Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.
