Jade Plant Poisoning in Dogs

The jade plant is a succulent that's popular for its good looks and easy maintenance. However, it's also toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and depression, so this is one plant that should be kept out of reach of your fur-baby.

A member of the genus crassula, the jade plant grows easily on its own, even with neglect, because the leaves hold moisture for a long time, similar to a cactus. This house plant can grow to roughly 3-6 feet high indoors and features thick, shiny, egg-shaped leaves. It's also known by a variety of other names, including baby jade, dwarf rubber plant, and Chinese rubber plant.

Unfortunately, the jade plant is toxic to dogs. And while the exact cause of its toxicity is not known, if your dog ingests jade plant leaves they may cause an upset stomach, lethargy, and a loss of coordination. That's why you should contact your veterinarian for advice if you suspect that your pet has consumed any jade plant.

It's not known why the jade plant is toxic to dogs, but there have been many different side effects reported. Symptoms to keep an eye out for include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Incoordination
  
• Depression

 Types

The jade plant (crassula ovata) is native to South Africa and comes in several varieties. This popular succulent is also known by a number of other common names, such as:

• Baby jade
• Chinese rubber plant
• Dollar plant
• Dwarf rubber plant
  
• Friendship tree
• Jade tree
• Japanese rubber plant
• Indian rubber plant
  
• Lucky plant
• Money tree
• Penny plant
• Tree of happiness

The jade plant isn't the only succulent that can be dangerous to dogs, with others such as aloe vera and the pencil cactus also capable of poisoning pets.

Unfortunately, it's not known why the jade plant is toxic to dogs. Most cases of poisoning are mild, but more serious symptoms of toxicity can develop. With this in mind, it's important to seek veterinary attention if your dog ingests any part of a jade plant, and monitor them closely for any symptoms.

If you think your dog has eaten any part of a jade plant, even if they're not showing any symptoms, get them checked out by your veterinarian. Though it is rare for the side effects to be serious, it is best to consult a veterinary professional.

Try to bring a portion or picture of the plant with you so the veterinarian can see what it was your pet was snacking on. This can help with the diagnosis as well as the treatment plan. You'll also need to tell the veterinarian if your dog is on any medications.

A complete and thorough physical examination will need to be performed, and your vet will assess your dog's  mental state as well as their hydration levels.

To treat jade plant poisoning, your veterinarian will use the standard approach of evacuation, decontamination, fluid therapy, medication, and observation.

Evacuation

The first thing to be done is to induce vomiting. Activated charcoal is also given by mouth to absorb the toxins still undigested.

Fluid therapy

Fluids will be given by intravenous (IV) line to flush the kidneys. This also helps reduce the chances of dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea.

Medication

There is usually not any need for medication. However, your veterinarian may give your pet an antiemetic to stop the vomiting if needed, as well as gastroprotectants.

Observation

Since jade plant poisoning is usually mild, the only observation needed will be you keeping an eye on your dog at home.

The prognosis in the case of jade plant poisoning is typically excellent because the side effects are usually mild. If your dog does have any serious issues, your veterinarian may decide to keep your dog overnight, but this is rare.

Jade plant poisoning can be expensive to treat. If you suspect your dog is at risk of jade plant poisoning, start searching for pet insurance today. Wag!’s pet insurance comparison tool lets you compare plans from leading companies like PetPlan and Embrace. Find the “pawfect” plan for your pet in just a few clicks!