Hosta Poisoning in Dogs

The hosta plant is a perennial, herbaceous plant that belongs to the family of Agavaceae. Having the genus of the same name, there are over 40 different species of these hardy plants. Hostas will grow in many different conditions in our native to the Eastern areas of Asia.

Hostas are a low-to-ground plant that has the characteristics of ribbed, or striped, leaves at the bottom of the plant and may have flowers at the very tip of the stalks. These stalks emerge from the leaves, and the flowers are in clusters in shades of white, or a shade of blue-purple mix. Hostas are often used in landscaping or in potted plants within homes.

Hostas contain a variety of saponins that are toxic to dogs in other small animals. Saponins cause vomiting and diarrhea; these are the typical symptoms of hosta poisoning. It is important to avoid planting hostas on your property and to avoid these potted plants within the home if you own dogs.

Hosta poisoning in dogs occurs when dogs ingest the hosta plant, which  contains saponins that are toxic to dogs and are harmful if ingested or if they come into contact with the skin.

Signs of hosta poisoning occur when a dog chews at any part of the plant. Hosta poisoning in dogs can have the following signs:

• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloating
• Twisting of intestines
• Distress
• Loss of appetite

Types

There are several different types of plants that contain saponins, and many natural soap makers depend on these plants for their hobby and business. Types of plants that contain saponins include:

• Christmas rose
• Horse chestnut trees
• Asparagus fern
• Daisies
• Soapwort
• Broomweed
• Cow cockle
• Corn cockle

Causes of hosta poisoning in dogs are due to the toxic saponins within the plant. Causes of poisoning by saponins are:

• Saponins foam up as they enter the digestive tract
• The foam paralyzes the digestive tract
• The paralyzed digestive tract will cause twisting and loading of the intestines
• Skin contact with saponins may cause irritation and pain

If your dog has eaten a hosta plant, he may begin to have abdominal pain and signs shortly thereafter. It is important to take him to the veterinarian so he can be closely monitored and treated for saponin toxicity.

Once you call the veterinarian, the veterinarian may ask you to induce vomiting on your own by giving him a solution that is recommended by the veterinarian. Take a sample of the plant in with you as well as the vomit that the dog has dispelled. Once you are at the veterinarian’s office, he will ask you questions about how much he ate, how long it has been since he ingested the hosta, and how much he possibly ingested.

The veterinarian will perform a complete physical examination, which may include blood testing, biochemistry profile, and a urinalysis. The veterinarian will also check your dog’s mouth area and skin for any irritation from the milky and somewhat sticky sap. If needed, the veterinarian will thoroughly rinse your dog to help get rid of the irritating substance. 

Testing will help your veterinarian come to a conclusion as to the type of toxicity your dog has. It will show if there are any chemical imbalances within your dog’s system and will accurately show if the organs are functioning properly.

After the veterinarian has come to a diagnosis of saponin poisoning, he will promptly begin treatment. Treatment methods may include: 

Inducing Vomiting 

If your dog has not vomited, the veterinarian may give medication to cause emesis, to help rid your dog of the saponins. This will likely be followed by the administration of activated charcoal to help absorb the toxins to prevent them from further entering your dog’s system. 

Decontamination

The veterinarian will immediately wash and rinse your dog with a mild cleanser and water to aid the removal of any sap that may have gotten on his face, eyes, coat and skin. The doctor may also need to flush out his mouth and eyes repeatedly with water to get rid of the toxic irritant. 

Intravenous Fluids

Giving your dog IV fluids is an ideal way to prevent dehydration, to restore any system imbalances, maintain proper levels of electrolytes, and to promote kidney function and urination. An antihistamine may also be combined with the fluids if your dog is suffering from an allergic reaction from the saponins. 

Monitoring

Signs will likely diminish within a few days or possibly longer, though the veterinarian will want to continue effective and consistent monitoring the of function of his kidneys and other systems. The veterinarian may choose to keep the dog overnight to continue to monitor him and to keep checking his blood work for signs of progression.

Once you have taken your companion home from the veterinary hospital, it will be important to keep a watchful eye on him and note any new symptoms that may occur. Keep him resting and avoid any rough play or long periods of outdoor time.

Your veterinarian may also suggest a new diet for your dog to be on, at least temporarily, until he fully heals and his gastrointestinal tract is ready for his regular food once again. The veterinarian may recommend a bland diet, with a list of foods which he would like your dog to eat, or a prescription dog food that is very mild on his system.

Your veterinarian will communicate with you any needs that you need to provide for your dog at home and what to watch for in terms of new behaviors. If your dog is continuing to take any medication, such as an antihistamine, be sure to administer it properly and on time each day.

In terms of follow-up visits, your veterinarian will let you know when he wants to see your dog again to be sure he is recovering nicely from hosta poisoning. Remove any hostas from your property, or be very sure that you can monitor your dog every time he goes outside so he does not eat any more of this poisonous plant.