Toxic to dogs · Plants

Is American Bittersweet toxic to dogs?

High severity

Yes. Exposure can cause serious illness and needs prompt veterinary attention.

Symptoms to watch for

  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • weakness
  • seizures

How vets treat it

Seek veterinary care for supportive treatment of gastrointestinal distress and monitoring for neurological signs in cases of large ingestions.

Why it's dangerous

The plant contains alkaloids that irritate the gastrointestinal tract and can potentially affect the central nervous system when ingested in large quantities.

Toxic compound: alkaloids

Good to know

The fruit is particularly attractive to pets and children; large ingestions are more likely to cause severe central nervous system symptoms.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to dogs

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