Toxic to dogs · Foods

Is Rhubarb toxic to dogs?

Extreme severity

Yes. Even a small amount can be life-threatening — treat any exposure as an emergency and contact a vet immediately.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Drooling
  • Inappetance
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Weakness
  • Tremors
  • Bloody urine
  • Changes in thirst and urination

How vets treat it

Immediate veterinary care is required to manage calcium levels and monitor kidney function; treatment typically involves decontamination and supportive care for renal failure.

Why it's dangerous

Soluble oxalate salts are absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and bind with the body's calcium, causing a sudden drop in calcium levels and potential acute renal failure.

Toxic compound: Soluble calcium oxalate crystals

Good to know

The leaves contain the highest concentration of toxins, while the stalks are less prevalent in crystals; it must be differentiated from less toxic insoluble oxalate plants.

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

Alcohol Extreme severity Apricot Pits, Seeds, Leaves, and Stems Extreme severity Caffeine Extreme severity Cherry Pits, Seeds, Leaves, and Stems Extreme severity Everything toxic to dogs →

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