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The hibiscus plant has 679 different species of many sizes, colors, and even shapes. Most of these are perennials, but a few are annuals. The most commonly grown is hibiscus syriacus, or rose of Sharon, which is a perennial that is grown as a bush or tree that can get up to 12 feet tall. Due to the variety of hibiscus, among other plants, you should always know what is growing in your yard (and inside your home) if you have a dog that spends time out there. If your pet decides to snack on these pretty plants, it can cause gastric irritation, burning and blistering of the mouth and tongue, and eye pain. In some cases, the burning and blistering can impede your dog’s ability to swallow, which can be dangerous.
Hibiscus poisoning is a condition caused by eating part of a hibiscus plant, including the root. The plant itself contains asparagine, which is an amino acid that can produce vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and a dermal burn and blistering that can interfere with eating and drinking. There are several other toxic properties in the roots and foliage of the hibiscus that have not been identified yet. These substances cause diarrhea and nausea similar to asparagine.
Hibiscus Poisoning Average Cost
From 407 quotes ranging from $200 - $800
Average Cost
$400
Since there are several different properties in the hibiscus plant and so many different species, the symptoms may vary and can be either mild or severe. In addition, if your dog somehow gets ahold of hibiscus root, the side effects are almost always severe. Here are some symptoms that have been reported:
Types
The hibiscus genus is part of the Malvaceae family and has over 650 types in various shapes, colors, and sizes. Some of the most common hibiscus plants are:
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There are several substances in the hibiscus plant, including the foliage, flower, and roots.
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To accurately diagnose your dog with hibiscus poisoning, the veterinarian will usually want to rule out any other illnesses and diseases. If you know for sure that your dog ate a hibiscus, bring a sample or photograph of the plant so she will know exactly which type of hibiscus your dog consumed. Let her know how much you think was eaten and any signs of poisoning you have noticed, if any. If you do not have your pet’s medical records, be sure to let the veterinarian know if your dog is on any kind of medicine or has been ill lately. Any changes in diet or strange behavior should be noted as well.
Your veterinarian will do an extensive physical examination of your pet, which usually includes body weight, temperature, blood pressure, skin and coat condition, pulse, and breath sounds. In addition, a urine and stool sample may be taken for microscopic examination to rule out infection or parasites. The stool sample may also contain portions of the plant so your veterinarian will know it is at least partially digested.
Laboratory tests needed for diagnosis include complete blood count (CBC), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), chemistry profile, liver panel, and a packed cell volume (PCV) to check for dehydration due to diarrhea and vomiting. The veterinarian may also want to do an endoscopy to get a look at your dog’s throat, esophagus, and upper airway. This is especially important if your dog is having swallowing or eating difficulty because of blistering or inflammation. Abdominal radiographs (x-rays) are useful in determining if there are any plant particles or obstructions. An ultrasound may also be used to get a more detailed view.
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Treating hibiscus poisoning is usually treated just like many other plant poisonings. The usual treatment consists of evacuation by emesis, detoxification with fluids, and observation.
Evacuation
To precipitate evacuation, the veterinarian will give your dog ipecac or a peroxide solution to induce vomiting. This may be followed by activated charcoal given by mouth to absorb any remaining toxins.
Detoxification
Detoxification includes intravenous (IV) fluids to flush the kidneys thoroughly. This also prevents dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea.
Medication
If your pet has any blisters or burns, the veterinarian will apply a topical ointment or lotion and will send you home with some to apply three times a day. If the blisters are on the inside of your dog’s mouth and throat, your veterinarian will administer a cortisone injection and may send you home with some spray to apply as necessary.
Observation
Your veterinarian will decide whether your dog needs to stay for observation or if you can observe your pet from home. It usually depends on how well your dog is responding to the treatment.
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If you received treatment right away, your pet should be back to normal within a few days. Continue to observe your pet and be sure to apply the medication as directed. Make sure your dog does not have access to the hibiscus plant in the future to prevent another episode.
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Hibiscus Poisoning Average Cost
From 407 quotes ranging from $200 - $800
Average Cost
$400
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Ask a Vet
Labradoodle Miniature
Three Months
Unknown severity
0 found helpful
Unknown severity
Has Symptoms
He threw up and then is eating less than usual and sleepier than usual. In throw up was a flower (hibiscus) he also was licking at playground some smushed grapes.
Sept. 26, 2020
Owner
Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this venue is not set up for urgent emails. It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get treatment for them.
Oct. 16, 2020
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Yorkshire Terrier
Five Years
Unknown severity
0 found helpful
Unknown severity
Has Symptoms
My dog chewed one of the leaves from a hibiscus plant. He didn’t eat it He chewed it. He has no symptoms yet
Sept. 25, 2020
Owner
Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. I apologize for the delay, this venue is not set up for urgent emails. I hope that your pet is feeling better. If they are having problems, It would be best to have your pet seen by a veterinarian, as they can examine them, see what might be going on, and get any testing or treatment taken care of that might be needed.
Oct. 21, 2020
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Bullmastiff
Five Months
Unknown severity
0 found helpful
Unknown severity
Has Symptoms
My dog drank a bedtime tea containing hibiscus. Will she be okay?
July 28, 2020
Owner
Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question. If she had a small amount of the tea, it is unlikely that there was enough actual hibiscus to cause any toxicity. If you do see any vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or loss of appetite, then it would be best to have her seen by your veterinarian, but I think she will be okay. I hope that all goes well for your dog!
July 28, 2020
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Izzy
Labrador Retriever
4 Years
Fair severity
0 found helpful
Fair severity
Has Symptoms
My dog ate shea moisture curling souffle- about half. She urinated in the house 4 times and normally does not go inside the house. She is not presenting with other symptoms. Does a emergency vet visit need to be taken? IngredientsIngredients Aqueous Infusion of Agave Teqilana Leaf Extract and Sugar Cane Extract, Pectin, Vegetable Glycerin, Adansonia Digitata Pulp(Baobab) Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter)*, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B-5, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract*, Tocopherol (Vitamin E - Vegetable Oil Source), Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed/Flax) Seed Extract, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Proprietary Essential Oil Blend *Certified Organic
Aug. 20, 2018
Izzy's Owner
0 Recommendations
From the ingredients list I don’t see anything in particular which jumps out as causing inappropriate urination, however there may be some gastrointestinal distress; some ingredients may be toxic in large amounts and you should think about visiting your Veterinarian for an examination to be on the safe side. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 21, 2018
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Bud
Newfoundland
8 Weeks
Fair severity
2 found helpful
Fair severity
Has Symptoms
My new puppy ripped some leaves off the the hibiscus plant. I took them from him right away but it is possible he may have eaten some with out someone noticing. The reason say this is because his stool appears to be more like diarrhea. It wasnt like this earlier today. Should I be concerned and take him to the vet? He seems to be fine and playful. He's eating and drinking
July 26, 2017
Bud's Owner
2 Recommendations
Consumption of hibiscus usually causes mild symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea; plus hibiscus causes irritation to the mouth and other mucous membranes so you would notice other symptoms too if they were consumed. If you have concerns, visit your Veterinarian. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
July 26, 2017
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Hibiscus Poisoning Average Cost
From 407 quotes ranging from $200 - $800
Average Cost
$400
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