Sago palm is a popular indoor and outdoor plant that is extremely toxic to dogs—as well as to cats and humans! Every part of the sago palm contains several toxins, including cycasin - the primary toxin that causes gastrointestinal distress and liver damage, and BMMS (B-Methylamino-L-alanine) which affects the nervous system, resulting in seizures and coma. 

While the seeds of the sago palm contain the highest amount of toxins, the roots, fronds, and even withered leaves are also poisonous to your pet. Something as seemingly harmless as your pup picking up a fallen seed pod or frond from the ground can be enough to cause poisoning.

If your dog comes across sago palm, consider it an emergency. VEG ER for Pets is open 24/7 to help.

Symptoms of sago palm poisoning in dogs

The symptoms of poisoning related to this plant can appear within fifteen minutes of exposure, or they can take a few hours to show up. In most cases, signs are present within the first 24 hours and can include: 

1. Vomiting

2. Diarrhea

3. Wobbly gait

4. Seizures

5. Yellow eyes and skin 

6. Nose bleeds 

7. Bleeding from the mouth

8. Abdominal pain or distension

The symptoms caused by exposure to this plant are due to the impact that it has on the liver. When the liver is damaged to this degree, internal bleeding and severe digestive upset are quite common. Dogs may  only show vomiting or diarrhea in the early stages of the exposure.

Treating sago palm poisoning in dogs

Sago palm poisoning is a medical emergency that requires immediate vet attention. Don’t hesitate to bring your dog to your vet or your nearest VEG ER for Pets animal clinic if you think your dog may have had contact with any part of a Sago palm and certainly if your pet is exhibiting any of the listed symptoms. 

If caught early enough, your vet may induce vomiting, and will most likely administer intravenous fluids. Some dogs can be given activated charcoal to try and absorb the toxins related to the poisoning.

For affected dogs, liver protectants, antacids, anti-nausea medicines, and electrolytes will usually also be given. Pets will need to stay in the hospital for several days depending on the severity of illness. Some dogs will need treatment with plasma and vitamin K1 to offset the issues caused by blood clotting disorders due to liver damage.

Prognosis for this kind of poisoning is always cautious. Sadly, many dogs that ingest sago palm do not survive. The sooner your dog gets emergency medical care, the better the outcome and more likely they will  survive. For dogs who do survive, some may have lasting liver issues and digestive problems related to eating this plant.

The amount of the sago palm that has been ingested is a key factor in determining the severity of your dog’s reaction and the long-term impact to their health. Dogs that have eaten the seeds or have ingested parts of the fronds are much more likely to have severe symptoms compared to dogs who have just put the plant in their mouth and spit it out.

Keeping your dog safe from sago palm

The easiest and safest way to manage your dog’s risk around sago palms is to simply not have them inside your home or out in your yard. If you’re looking for something tropical, opt for pet-safe alternatives like Parlor palms, Areca palms, Bamboo palms, or Kentia palms instead.

In warmer, subtropical climate areas like the Gulf Coast, Southern California, and Florida, sago palms are often used in commercial landscapes and home exteriors, so you’ll need to keep a sharp eye out when walking your pup. Familiarize yourself with the look of sago palms and their seeds so you can avoid them, and if you’re not sure if a plant is a sago palm, err on caution and assume it is and avoid it.  

Consider houseplants that are fake so that you do not run into these kinds of accidental poisoning. Cats can also be impacted by the same plants that make dogs sick, so there is no reason to create a possible toxic plant risk in your home. There are many lovely silk plants that you can replace your real houseplants with in order to keep your pets safe.

Go to a VEG emergency animal clinic ASAP if your dog ate sago palms

If you suspect or know that your pet has ingested sago palm, bring your dog to your nearest  VEG dog hospital at once. All of our pet hospital locations are open 24/7, including holidays, and you never have to wait to speak to an emergency vet when you need help. You’ll be able to stay with your pet while our team of compassionate professionals walk you through every step of treatment. We’re here to answer all of your questions, and to give your dog the best possible care.