Is Peace Lily Toxic to Dogs?

Have you ever thought about how that pretty peace lily sitting in your living room could actually be a problem for your dog? It turns out that this lovely plant can be quite toxic. It contains calcium oxalate crystals that can mess with your pup’s stomach. This can cause drooling, and even lead to serious breathing issues when munched on.

If you’re a dog owner, it’s important to know which plants might pose a risk. This guide explains why peace lilies are toxic, which parts of the plant are dangerous, and the symptoms of poisoning to watch for. Keep reading to learn how to keep your home both beautiful and safe for your pets!

• Related article: Guide to Growing Peace Lily Houseplants for Beginners

7 Key Takeaways on Peace Lily Toxicity to Dogs

1. Peace lily plants are toxic to dogs because of the presence of calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause stomach upset, and vomiting. It can even lead to death if eaten in large amounts.
2. All parts of the peace lily, especially the bulb, are poisonous. Keep the plant out of your pet’s reach to avoid accidental eating.
3. Signs of peace lily poisoning in dogs include drooling, whining from mouth pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to trouble swallowing or breathing, needing immediate vet care.
4. Most cases of peace lily poisoning are self-limiting and can heal without medical help. Giving low-fat yogurt or low-sodium chicken broth can help ease discomfort.
5. To prevent poisoning, keep peace lily plants elevated, clean up fallen leaves regularly, and make sure your dog is well-fed to reduce curiosity about the plants.
6. If you think your dog has eaten a peace lily or shows signs of poisoning, act fast. Contact your vet or the ASPCA poison control hotline for advice.
7. While peace lily poisoning isn’t very common in dogs, it’s important to know the risks. Consider safer, dog-friendly plants for your home to keep your pets safe.

Are Peace Lily Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Peace lily houseplants can be harmful to your dog due to a toxin called calcium oxalate crystals, which can irritate your dog’s mouth and stomach.

This substance is found in all parts of the plant, including the leaves, flowers, sepals, stems, pollen, and stamens, with the highest concentration in the bulb. Keep the plant out of reach and consider fencing it off to prevent your dog from eating it.

While peace lilies aren’t as dangerous as true lilies, which can be very harmful to pets, they still pose a risk. If your dog chews on one, the plant’s insoluble calcium oxalate crystals can lodge in their mouth, throat, or stomach, causing pain, swelling, and potential breathing difficulties.

• Learn more: Are Peace Lily Plants Toxic to Cats?

Symptoms of Peace Lily Poisoning in Dogs

If your dog chews or eats a peace lily, they may show the following symptoms:

• Labored Breathing – In severe cases, swelling can block their airway, making it hard to breathe.
• Burning and Irritation – Dogs might feel a strong burning sensation in their mouth, tongue, and lips after biting the plant.
• Excessive Drooling – Increased saliva is common as a reaction to mouth irritation.
• Vomiting and Diarrhea – Eating the plant can upset their stomach, leading to vomiting and diarrhea.
• Difficulty Swallowing – Swelling in the mouth and throat may make it painful or hard for dogs to swallow.
• Decreased Appetite – Dogs might lose interest in food because of discomfort.
• Pawing at the Face – Dogs may paw at their mouth or face if they are in pain or feel irritation.

What Should I Do if My Dog Eats a Peace Lily?

If your dog eats a peace lily, act quickly by following these steps:

1. Remove the Plant – Move any remaining parts of the peace lily out of reach.
2. Rinse the Mouth – Gently rinse your dog’s mouth with water to reduce irritation from the plant’s toxins.
3. Watch for Symptoms – Look for signs like drooling, vomiting, trouble swallowing, or pawing at the mouth. Symptoms can start within minutes to a few hours.
4. Offer Water – Encourage your dog to drink water to help flush out the toxins.
5. Call a Veterinarian – If symptoms worsen or breathing becomes difficult, contact your vet right away. They may advise further treatment, like medications for pain or reducing inflammation.

Most cases of peace lily poisoning in dogs resolve on their own without the need for medical treatment. Symptoms usually get better within 24 hours. To help soothe your dog’s mouth and throat, offering low-fat plain yogurt or low-sodium chicken broth can help flush out any remaining toxins.

If you suspect your dog ate a large amount or see symptoms but didn’t catch them in the act, it’s best to call your vet or the ASPCA poison control hotline right away. Visit the ASPCA website for more information.

In more serious cases—like if your dog is in pain, won’t eat, or has trouble swallowing or breathing—immediate veterinary care is important. Treatments can include anti-nausea medication, pain relief, and more intensive care for severe symptoms.

Tips to Prevent Peace Lily Poisoning in Dogs

To keep your dog safe from peace lily poisoning, check out these helpful tips:

• Remove the Plant – The most effective way to prevent poisoning is to eliminate the risk entirely. Consider giving away your peace lily to a friend without pets or replacing it with non-toxic houseplants.
• Secure Placement – If you choose to keep a peace lily, place it in a location that is completely out of reach of your dog, such as on high shelves or in rooms that can be closed off.
• Create Barriers – Use baby gates or other barriers to restrict your dog’s access to areas where peace lilies are kept. This helps prevent any accidental encounters.

• Regular Cleaning – Keep the area around your peace lily clean and free of fallen leaves or blooms, which could attract your dog and pose a risk if ingested.
• Training – Train your dog to avoid certain plants or areas of the house. Positive reinforcement can help teach them not to chew on or approach the peace lily.
• Provide Alternatives – Offer safe, pet-friendly plants or toys that can satisfy your dog’s curiosity and chewing instincts, reducing their interest in the peace lily.

Is Peace Lily Toxic to Dogs Final Thoughts

Peace lily plants can make your home look amazing, but they’re not so great for your furry friends. As a dog owner, you need to know these plants can harm your pup.

Keep those plants out of reach. Watch for signs your dog might have eaten some. It’s important to act fast if you suspect anything’s wrong. Why not try some dog-safe plants instead? They’ll spruce up your space without the worry. If you think your pup got into a peace lily, call your vet right away.

You can enjoy your plants and keep your dog safe by always being alert. It’s all about creating a home that’s both beautiful and pet-friendly.

Peace Lily Toxicity to Dogs FAQs

1. What Symptoms Indicate Mild Discomfort From Peace Lily Exposure?

Dogs exposed to a peace lily may show signs of mild discomfort, including drooling, pawing at the mouth, and difficulty swallowing. These symptoms can vary depending on the amount ingested.

2. Can Eating Peace Lily Cause Loss of Appetite In Dogs?

Yes, ingestion of peace lily plants can lead to loss of appetite in dogs due to the resulting oral irritation and discomfort. If your dog refuses to eat after potential exposure, consult a veterinarian.

3. Are There Any Common Houseplants That Are Safe for Dogs?

Yes, many dog-friendly plants are safe alternatives to peace lily houseplants, such as spider plants, Boston ferns, and bamboo palms. These options provide greenery without the risk of toxicity.

Here are some other articles you might be interested in to learn more about peace lily houseplants:

• Repotting a Peace Lily Houseplant
• Peace Lily Plant Drooping Leaves
• How to Revive a Dying Peace Lily Plant
• Browing Flowers of Peace Lily Houseplants