What to Do If Your Dog Eats Tomato Plant

If you’re a gardener and a dog lover, you’ve probably wondered whether your furry friend can harm your tomato plants. The short answer is yes! The tomato plant’s leaves, stems, and unripe fruit contain solanine and tomatine, two chemicals that are harmful to dogs when ingested. If your dog eats a tomato plant, it’s important to act fast to minimize the risk of toxicity.

Symptoms of Tomato Plant Toxicity in Dogs

If you suspect that your dog has eaten some part of a tomato plant, you should watch for the following symptoms:

Nausea and vomiting

Diarrhea

Abdominal pain

Drooling

Loss of appetite

Lethargy

In severe cases, your dog can experience tremors, seizures, and even death. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, you should seek emergency veterinary care immediately.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Tomato Plant

If you catch your dog eating a tomato plant, the first step is to remove him from the area to prevent further ingestion. Next, you should take the following steps:

Call your veterinarian. They can ask you about your dog’s symptoms and advise you on next steps.

Rinse your dog’s mouth. Use a large syringe or turkey baster to flush your dog’s mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian.

Offer your dog bland food. Once your dog has stopped vomiting or experiencing diarrhea for at least a few hours, offer them small amounts of bland food such as boiled chicken and rice.

Monitor your dog for symptoms. Keep a close eye on your dog for the next 24-48 hours. Call your veterinarian immediately if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Preventing Tomato Plant Toxicity in Dogs

The best way to keep your dog safe is to prevent them from eating tomato plants in the first place. Here are some tips:

Place your tomato plants in a location that is inaccessible to your dog. Consider using a fence or other barrier to keep your dog away.

Keep a close eye on your dog when they’re outside. If your dog is curious and likes to explore, it’s important to supervise them at all times.

Train your dog to avoid the garden. Consistently reminding your dog to stay away from the garden can help reduce the likelihood of them ingesting harmful plants.

Conclusion

Tomato plant toxicity can be dangerous to your furry friend, but if you act fast and take the necessary steps, you can minimize the risks. If you suspect your dog has eaten a tomato plant, call your veterinarian immediately, rinse your dog’s mouth, offer them bland food, and monitor them closely. And remember, prevention is the best way to keep your dog safe. Take steps to keep your tomato plants out of reach and supervise your dog when they’re outside.