What is amaryllis?
Amaryllis (Hippeastrum hybrids) is a bulbous plant from the Peruvian Andes that belongs to the amaryllis family. It has narrow, green leaves and a thick stem with several funnel-shaped, slightly drooping flowers. The flowers can be white, pink, red or striped and have a diameter of up to 20 cm. Amaryllis is also known as knight's star and is available both as a cut flower and as a houseplant.
Why is amaryllis poisonous to dogs?
Amaryllis contains various alkaloids that have an effect on the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract of dogs. The most toxic substances are lycorine and amelline, which are found in all parts of the plant, but are particularly concentrated in the bulb. Just two grams of onion skin can cause severe symptoms of poisoning in a dog. The toxicity of amaryllis applies to all dog breeds and sizes.
What are the symptoms of amaryllis poisoning in dogs?
If a dog eats or chews on amaryllis, it may show the following symptoms:
- Increased salivation
- Nausea
- vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- drowsiness
- skin irritation
- paralysis
- palpitations
- heart problems
- cramps
- tremors
The symptoms can vary depending on the amount and duration of the poison ingestion. Very severe poisoning can lead to cardiac arrest and death of the dog.
What should you do if your dog has eaten amaryllis?
Amaryllis poisoning in dogs is a life-threatening emergency that requires rapid action. If you notice or suspect that your dog has eaten amaryllis, you should take the following steps:
- Remove all visible remains of the plant from your dog's mouth.
- Call your vet or animal emergency services immediately and inform them of the situation.
- Take your dog to the vet or animal emergency services as soon as possible.
- If possible, take a piece of the plant or a photo of it with you so that the vet can determine the type of poisoning.
- Follow the vet's instructions and keep them informed about your dog's condition.
The vet will try to remove the poison from your dog's body and treat the symptoms. They may take the following measures:
- Give activated charcoal to bind the poison in the stomach and excrete it.
- Give laxatives to empty the bowel.
- Induce vomiting to remove the poison from the stomach.
- Give infusions to compensate for fluid loss and stabilize the circulation.
- Give medication to relieve heart problems and cramps.
The prognosis for your dog depends on the severity of the poisoning, the speed of treatment and your dog's general health. In some cases, there may be permanent damage to the kidneys or heart.
How can you prevent amaryllis poisoning in your dog?
The best way to prevent amaryllis poisoning in your dog is to avoid bringing the plant into your home in the first place or to keep it where your dog cannot access it. If you want to have amaryllis as a cut flower or houseplant, you should take the following precautions:
- Place the amaryllis out of your dog's reach, for example on a high shelf or in a locked room.
- Remove any fallen leaves or flowers from the amaryllis and dispose of them safely.
- Watch your dog when he is near the amaryllis and distract him if he shows interest in it.
- Train your dog not to eat or chew on plants.
- Find out about other plants that are poisonous to dogs and avoid them too.
