Snake plants are popular indoor houseplants. They have a tough, succulent, long foliage that looks like grass. They also require little maintenance. Snake plants are often covered with unique stripes or tones that resemble snake markings. The plants are also known for their tolerance to neglect. This makes them a great choice for new houseplant collectors.
Many people are concerned about the safety of keeping these plants with their dogs. They love their unique appearance and hardiness. Are snake plants toxic for dogs? Unfortunately, yes. According to the ASPCA snake plants should not be given to dogs or cats.
Nine popular houseplants that are toxic to dogs
Toxicity
They are mildly or moderately toxic for dogs. The leaves contain saponins that cause hypersalivation and dilation of pupils, as well as gastrointestinal distress. Small amounts of the substance usually result in milder symptoms. However, large quantities can cause more severe symptoms.
Snake plant poisoning in dogs: Symptoms
Snake plant poisoning can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.3 Be on the lookout for signs that your pet is acting abnormally or experiencing gastrointestinal distress.
WARNING
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a professional. Induce vomiting only if instructed by a medical professional.4 If you can, bring in a photo or a piece of the snake plant to show the vet. Keep an eye on your pet and make sure that he or she does not ingest any more plant.
How to prevent your dog from eating your snake plant
Snake plants are hardy and thrive in low light environments, so they can be placed in many places in the house. To prevent your dog from eating the snake plant, move it into an area where your dog can’t reach it, like on a shelf. You can also move the snake plant into a room where your dog cannot enter. You may want to give your snake plant to a good friend if your dog is notorious for getting into trouble.
Snake Plants Alternatives that are Nontoxic
The best way to keep your dog away from toxic plants is by purchasing nontoxic ones. If your dog treats your houseplants as a snack out of curiosity, it will not harm the plant. These non-toxic alternatives to snake plants are great for pets.
Cast iron plant: This unique tall plant has similar sword-like leaves to snake plants but is nontoxic for dogs. These plants are also known to thrive in low to medium light, and they are just as tough and hardy. Cast iron plants are a great alternative.
Ponytail palm: This plant is known for its large, round roots and grass-like leaves that cascade down. These plants are drought-tolerant, and require little care.
Spider Plants: A popular, non-toxic houseplant with spiky, grass-like foliage, spider plants have a similar appearance to a grass. The snake plant’s yellow and green stripes are similar to the pattern on their leaves. The spider-like baby spider plants or dangling offshoots are what make them famous. They look beautiful when they are hung on the ceiling or placed on a shelf.
Zebra Calathea – This plant has striking, zebra like striped leaves and can grow up to two or three feet high. This plant requires more humidity and water, but it has eye-catching leaves that are a good replacement for snake plant’s striped foliage.
