Are Yucca Plants Toxic to Dogs? | Waldo's Friends

Home / Blog / Are Yucca Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Blog

Blog Hero

Pet Friendly Plants

Are Yucca Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Are Yucca Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Yes, yucca plants are toxic to dogs. 

A genus of perennial shrubs and trees, Yucca belongs to the family Asparagaceae and subfamily Agavoideae. There are currently 50 recognized species of the Yucca plant. They generally have long, sword-shaped leaves arranged in a circular form. Thriving in hot, arid environments, yucca plants are native to countries such as Mexico, Guatemala, and the USA.

Yucca plants have many names. People call them Adam’s needle, bear grass, common yucca, needle palm, silk grass, Spanish bayonet, and spoon leaf. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and Pet Poison Helpline both list the plant as toxic for dogs. However, yucca is different from yuca. The latter, alternately called cassava root, is edible. It is the main ingredient of cassava cake and yuca fries. 

What to do if your dog accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats yucca plants: When consumed, yucca has steroidal saponins that can cause digestive issues in canines. Pet Poison Helpline states that dogs can experience vomiting and diarrhea after eating any part of the yucca plant. Other symptoms that may manifest in animals include drooling, weakness, incoordination, and dilated pupils (in cats). Abdominal pain, high blood pressure, increased heart rate, and lethargy may also be experienced

When walking your dog, keep him away from all yucca plants. If he accidentally eats its leaves or roots, monitor him for symptoms of poisoning. Aside from the aforementioned signs, he may also experience respiratory complications and skin irritation. Speak with your veterinarian, and take him to the clinic as needed. 

In summary: Yucca has a foul taste that will immediately deter your dog from eating it. However, he may get a stomach ache instantly after exposure. Avoid growing yucca plants at home, or letting your dog play around them. 

Keep your pooch safe by checking these lists from Pet Poison Helpline, ASPCA, and PetMD before bringing home a new houseplant or growing one in your backyard. 

References:

Yucca – Wikipedia

Yucca | ASPCA

Can Dogs Eat Yucca? Symptoms of Yucca Poisoning

Yucca is Toxic to Dogs

Yucca Poisoning in Dogs

Dog poisoning: Signs of poisoning in dogs and what you need to do



Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. All fields are required.

Check out related posts

Are Mass Cane Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Are Mass Cane Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Yes, mass cane plants are toxic to dogs.  A cultivar of the corn plant, the mass cane plant is an air-purifying tropical plant with the scientific name Dracaena fragrans ‘Massangeana.’ Grown as a hedge or houseplant, it has distinct thick woody stems and bright yellow stripes that accentuate its glossy, drooping green leaves.  Similar to… Continue reading Are Mass Cane Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Are Green Bean Plants Toxic to Cats?

Are Green Bean Plants Toxic to Cats?

No, green bean plants are not toxic to cats. A popular legume, the Phaseolus vulgaris or common bean is an annual plant grown worldwide. Some of its cultivars produce edible green beans, which consist of young, unripe seeds found inside long pods. Aside from green beans, the plant is also called French beans, snap beans,… Continue reading Are Green Bean Plants Toxic to Cats?

Are Birkin Plants Toxic to Cats?

Are Birkin Plants Toxic to Cats?

Yes, birkin plants are toxic to cats.  The birkin plant, or Philodendron birkin, is a cultivar of the Philodendron erubescens species. Native to Colombia, the flowering plant belongs to the Araceae family. Other Araceae plants include Chinese evergreen, peace lily, and swiss cheese plants. A gorgeous houseplant, the birkin plant has large deep green leaves… Continue reading Are Birkin Plants Toxic to Cats?