Japanese lily
The lily of the valley is a climbing plant with eye-catching flowers that shine in various colors from green to yellow to red. It is a popular houseplant that originates from Asia and Africa and blooms in summer. But many dog owners don't know this: The lily of the valley is deadly poisonous for dogs and other pets!
What is gloriosa and why is it poisonous?
The lily of the valley belongs to the lily family and has the botanical name Gloriosa superba or Gloriosa rothschildiana. It has elongated, oval leaves that form tendrils at the tips with which it clings to other plants or objects. The flowers have six folded back and curled petals, which vary in color depending on the variety.
The main poisonous substance in the lily of the valley is colchicine, which is also found in the autumn crocus. Colchicine is an alkaloid that inhibits cell division and thus causes severe damage to the organs. Colchicine is contained in all parts of the plant, but especially in the tubers from which the plant grows.
What are the symptoms of poisoning?
If a dog eats or chews parts of the lily of the valley, it can show signs of poisoning after a short time.
The first symptoms include
- Difficulty swallowing
- Burning and scratching in the mouth and throat area
- vomiting
- salivation
- Stomach and intestinal discomfort
- Cramps
- Bloody diarrhea
In severe cases, further complications may occur, such as
- Cold extremities
- Gray skin color
- Palpitations
- Circulatory weakness
- Drop in blood pressure
- Paralysis
- Respiratory paralysis
Poisoning with lily of the valley can lead to death within 1 to 3 days if no treatment is given.
What should you do if your dog has eaten lily of the valley?
If you suspect or observe that your dog has eaten lily of the valley, you should visit or call a vet immediately. The quicker treatment is given, the better the chances of recovery.
The vet will try to remove the poison from the gastrointestinal tract by making the dog vomit or performing gastric lavage. He will also give the dog fluids and medication to alleviate the symptoms and protect the organs.
Poisoning with lily of the valley can be life-threatening, so it is important that you keep a close eye on your dog and do not allow him to get to the plant.
How can you protect your dog from lily of the valley?
The best way to prevent poisoning with lily of the valley is to avoid having the plant in your home or garden in the first place. If you want to keep it anyway, you should place or hang it up in such a way that your dog cannot reach it. Also make sure that no leaves or flowers fall off or are cut off.
You should also teach your dog not to nibble or eat plants that he doesn't know. This applies not only to lilies, but also to other poisonous plants such as oleander, ivy or lily of the valley.
The lily of the valley is a beautiful plant, but it can be very dangerous for dogs. If you have a dog, you should think carefully about whether you want to have it around. If you do decide to have it, you should keep it safely away from your dog and keep an eye on it. If you suspect poisoning, you should waste no time and take your dog to the vet.
If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊