Mums might give your dog the runs so be sure to keep your chrysanthemums out of reach of curious paws and slobbery mouths.
Chrysanthemums, often affectionately called “mums,” are popular ornamental fall flowers known for their vibrant colors and beautiful flowers
They are common garden plants seen in backyard gardens, floral arrangements, and are often used as front porch decorations in the fall.
While this beautiful flowering plant may be a seasonal fall favorite for humans, it’s important to remember the potential dangers they might pose to our dogs.
Are mums toxic to dogs?
Spoiler alert: They are!
Are Mums Toxic to Dogs?
Yes, mums, also known as chrysanthemums can be toxic to dogs.
These colorful blooms do indeed have a dark side and they are listed on the ASPCA’s list of fall poisonous plants that are mildly toxic to dogs.
The Dilemma
How can it be that one of fall’s most popular flowers is toxic to our dogs?
It’s quite simple.
Mums contain pyrethrins and pyrethroids, which sound like ingredients for a magical potion but are actually natural insecticides.
These compounds can wreak havoc in a dog’s world, making mums not just garden decor but also potential canine kryptonite.
Dangers of Chrysanthemums for Dogs
The entire plant is poisonous and contains sesquiterpene lactones, pyrethrins, and several other toxic substances.
Both the lactones and pyrethrins are used to produce insecticides and can affect sodium channels in your dog’s body
This reaction, when a dog eats large amounts of the plant, can lead to:
- low blood pressure
- respiratory failure
- irregular heartbeat
- loss of coordination
- coma
- and while rare, can lead to death in extreme cases.
Potential Problems
If your dog takes a nosedive into your chrysanthemum here are a few worst case scenarios that could happen:
- Gastrointestinal: Chrysanthemum consumption can lead to a canine gastrointestinal upset. Vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling can be some signs.
- Neurological: For those dogs who crave a more thrilling storyline, severe chrysanthemum poisoning can provide it. Imagine your pup starring in their action movie, complete with tremors, excessive salivation, and even seizures.
- Skin Saga: Chrysanthemum contact can also lead to a skin irritation. Your dog may have an itchy, red, and inflamed look on their skin
- Allergic: Some dogs can have allergic reactions that can include featuring itching, hives, and swelling.
Symptoms of mum (chrysanthemum) poisoning in dogs don’t wait for the perfect time to make an appearance.
Most dogs will begin to show signs of poisoning within 24 hours of consumption.
To make it crystal clear, common symptoms of mum poisoning in dogs are:
- Upset stomach
- Drooling (excessive drooling for dogs like Newfies that drool on the regular)
- Skin irritation
- Excessive scratching
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Coughing/gagging
- Oral irritation
- Pawing at mouth
Serious symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain
- Lack of coordination/stumbling
- Dilated eyes
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Fever
- Breathing difficulties
- Bloody diarrhea
- Severe vomiting
- Shaking
- Seizures
While I’m writing this in a playful tone, the reality of mum poisoning in dogs is nothing to mess with but as a retired vet tech, let me tell you that in 10+ years, I never saw a dog with serious mum poisoning at my clinic.
Upset stomach, yes.
A little itchy, also yes.
But that’s not to say that it can’t happen so it’s better to know what to look for than to be caught off guard if your dog decides to take a nose dive into your favorite fall plants this year.
What to Do If Your Dog is Exposed to Chrysanthemums
If your dog takes a sniff of your new mum or even a small nibble from parts of the plant, they’ll most likely be just fine but if you suspect that your dog has plucked a mouthful of blooms out and ingested them, it’s important to check in with your veterinarian and also to check their mouth.
In case your dog decides to embrace the world of floral folly here’s your next steps:
- Veterinary: Call your veterinarian or the nearest animal clinic. Make sure to provide them with any symptoms your dog might be experiencing no matter how little.
- No Vomiting: Avoid trying to induce vomiting unless your veterinarian tells you to do it.
- Monitor: Keep an eagle eye on your dog’s condition while waiting for professional guidance. If your dog exhibits severe symptoms, such as seizures, irregular heart rate or difficulty breathing, seek emergency care immediately.
Prevention Is Key
Prevention is always key when it comes to keeping our dogs safe but prevention doesn’t understand how some curious and devil worshiping dogs work.
However, obviously, preventing exposure to chrysanthemums is the best bet to protect your dog from potential toxicity and digestive upset.
Here are some preventive measures that may or not work depending on how creative your dog is:
- Chrysanthemum Concealment: If you have chrysanthemums and a dog, consider keeping them under wraps. Remove them or place them in an area where your dog can’t get their paws or mouth on them.
- Educate: Learn to identify the entire chrysanthemum family for a more thrilling walk with your dog.
- Supervise Your Dog: Keep a vigilant eye on your dog during garden strolls. When encountering outdoor plants, don’t turn your back on your dog for a second, that’s what he’s waiting for you to do.
- Train Your Dog: Enroll your dog in obedience training. Basic obedience training can be incredibly helpful in preventing your dog from ingesting toxic plants or substances.
What Variety Of Mum Are Toxic To Dogs?
With several varities of mums out there in different shapes, sizes and blooms it’s not easy to head to the local flower shop and figure out which one is the most toxic to dogs.
However, the most common reactions in dogs have been found to come from these Asteraceae family members:
- Chrysanthemum (most common name)
- Chrysanths
- Corn daisy
- Daisy
- Garland chrysanthemum
- Hardy garden mum
- Indian chrysanthemum
- Tricolor daisy
A Dramatic Prognosis
If you’re sitting on the edge of your chair right now waiting for the good news, it’s right here.
Recovery of chrysanthemum (mum) poisoning in dogs is quite, dare I say, good.
When treated promptly and properly, these chrysanthemum toxins, don’t stick around for long.
Their effects should exit the stage within a mere 24 hours.
If your dog had to make a trip to the vet to admit their mistake, expect your veterinarian to recommend a bland diet.
Don’t forget the essentials: ensure your pet has an ample supply of water, because staying hydrated is important.
Keep a close eye on your pup and report any unexpected developments to your veterinarian.
Other Common Fall Dangers For Dogs
As if that’s not enough drama to dampen our fairytale fall festivities, besides chrysanthemums being harmful to dogs, there are also several other fall hazards lurking right in front of us including:
- wild mushrooms
- ticks (ticks love to hide in dark places such as leaf piles)
- oak leaves
- corn cobs
- xylitol
- black walnut trees