Why
Aloe vera leaves contain saponins and anthraquinone glycosides (found in the yellow latex just under the skin), which act as a laxative and irritate the digestive tract.
The clear inner gel is less of a concern, but products made for people may contain other ingredients, so do not apply or give aloe products to pets without veterinary advice.
How to recognize it
A succulent with thick, fleshy, grey-green leaves edged with small teeth, growing in a rosette. A cut leaf shows clear gel inside and a yellow sap just under the skin, which is the part that upsets the stomach.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Change in urine color (occasionally)
What to do
- Contact your veterinarian if vomiting or diarrhea is severe or lasts more than a day.
- Keep aloe plants out of reach, especially of dogs that chew.
- Do not use human aloe gels on pets that may lick them off.
Pet-safe alternatives
Looking for something similar without the risk? These plants are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Related plants
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List (dogs, cats).
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Toxicology section.
If your pet has eaten a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away and bring a photo or piece of the plant. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).