Hydrangeas are poisonous to dogs because of the toxic chemicals they contain. Although they are beautiful and popular flowers in many gardens, bringing vibrant color and pleasing aesthetics, these plants hide in their beauty a danger to pets. Toxic substances in hydrangeas, such as cyanogenic glycosides and phytotoxins, can trigger strong adverse reactions and even serious poisoning in dogs if ingested.
It is important for dog owners to be aware of the danger hydrangeas pose and take preventative measures to protect their pets. Close supervision of the dog in the garden or in areas where these plants grow is essential to prevent their ingestion. Identifying and removing hydrangeas from the dog’s environment is an important preventive measure for his safety.
CONTENT:
- Toxic Substances in Hydrangeas
- Types of hydrangeas poisonous to dogs
- Hydrangea poisonous reactions and symptoms
- What to do in case of indigestion
- Prevention of Intoxication
- Conclusion
Toxic Substances in Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas contain certain toxic chemical compounds that can be dangerous to dogs and other pets. The main toxic substances found in these plants are cyanogenic glycosides and phytotoxins. These substances can cause serious adverse reactions in the organisms that consume them.
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Cyanogenic glycosides
Cyanogenic glycosides are chemical compounds naturally occurring in hydrangeas and are precursors to cyanide, a highly toxic substance. When hydrangeas are eaten or ingested by dogs, these glycosides can be released and metabolized to cyanide in the animal’s body. Cyanide can have severe effects on normal cellular function, particularly affecting the functioning of the nervous and cardiovascular systems.
These cyanogenic glycosides are found in various parts of the hydrangea plant, including leaves, flowers, and stems. Therefore, all these parts of the plant can pose a risk to animals that consume them.
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Phytotoxins
In addition to cyanogenic glycosides, hydrangeas also contain phytotoxins, which can cause irritation and adverse reactions in organisms that come into contact with them. Phytotoxins present in hydrangeas can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation and, in severe cases, respiratory or heart problems in dogs.
It is important to note that toxicity can vary depending on the amount of hydrangeas consumed and the size and weight of the dog. Even a small amount of hydrangeas can cause toxic reactions in a smaller dog or worsen symptoms in a large dog.
Types of hydrangeas poisonous to dogs
All types of hydrangeas contain chemicals that are toxic to dogs, especially in the leaves, flowers and stems. The main chemicals found in hydrangeas that can be toxic to dogs are cyanogenic glycosides and phytotoxins.
Regardless of the specific type of hydrangea—whether it’s Hortensia macrophylla (curly hydrangea), Hortensia serrata (mountain hydrangea), Hortensia quercifolia (oakleaf hydrangea), or other popular varieties—these plants contain the same toxic chemicals. Therefore, all types of hydrangeas can be considered dangerous for dogs in terms of their toxicity.
Because of the presence of these harmful chemicals, ingesting any type of hydrangea can cause adverse reactions in dogs, such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, lethargy, or in severe cases, respiratory and cardiac problems.
Hydrangea poisonous reactions and symptoms
Ingestion of hydrangeas can cause a number of toxic reactions and unpleasant symptoms in dogs. It is important to recognize the signs that may indicate possible hydrangea poisoning so that we can act quickly to provide the necessary medical assistance to our pet.
1. Nausea and Vomiting
One of the first visible signs after ingesting hydrangeas in dogs can be nausea, followed by frequent vomiting. These symptoms can appear quite quickly after the dog has ingested the plants and can be the initial signals of poisoning.
2. Abdominal pains
Dogs that have consumed hydrangeas may exhibit obvious abdominal discomfort. Signs of pain may occur, and the dog may show discomfort by flexing its abdomen or other signs of distress.
3. Excessive Salivation
Excessive salivation can be another symptom of hydrangea poisoning in dogs. This intense salivation can be observed during or after ingesting the plants and may be a sign of the body’s reaction to the toxic substances present in hydrangeas.
4. Lethargy and Weakness
Pets affected by hydrangeas ingestion may become lethargic or exhibit general weakness. This can be accompanied by a lack of energy and little interest in activities. Dogs may appear less active than usual and may be less interested in play or other usual activities.
5. Respiratory problems
In severe cases of poisoning, dogs may experience breathing difficulties or heart rhythm disturbances. These symptoms can be serious and require immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications.
What to do in case of ingestion
If it is suspected that a dog has eaten hydrangeas, or if it shows any of the symptoms mentioned above after contact with these plants, it is essential to act quickly:
- Contact a Veterinarian: Seek immediate medical attention from your veterinarian. The faster you intervene, the better the chances of recovery.
- Do Not Induce Vomiting or Administer Home Treatments: In the event of ingesting toxic plants, it is important not to induce vomiting at home or administer medication without first consulting your veterinarian.
Prevention of Intoxication
To prevent ingestion of hydrangeas and other toxic plants, dog owners should take precautions:
- Identification and Exclusion: Try to identify and eliminate hydrangeas and other toxic plants from your dog’s environment.
- Supervision and Education: Closely supervise the dog during walks and in the garden to prevent the consumption of unfamiliar plants and educate family members about plants that are dangerous to dogs.
Conclusion
Hydrangeas are wonderful decorative plants, but they contain chemicals that are toxic to dogs. It is essential that dog owners are aware of this danger and take precautions to prevent ingesting these plants and avoid toxic reactions in their pets. If there is any suspicion of ingestion, immediate contact with a veterinarian is crucial to treating the affected dog.
Also, it is very good to know what other plants can be harmful to dogs.
