Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Toxic? Safety Tips for Pet Owners

Fiddle leaf figs are a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts due to their large, sculptural leaves and ability to transform living spaces. However, if you have pets, it's crucial to ask: Are fiddle leaf figs toxic? The answer is yes, and understanding this toxicity is important for keeping your furry and feathered friends safe.

Toxicity of Fiddle Leaf Figs

Fiddle leaf figs, known scientifically as Ficus lyrata, contain a substance called sapogenin in their milky sap. This substance, found predominantly in the leaves and stems, is mildly toxic to both pets and humans. 

When this sap comes in contact with the skin or is ingested, it can cause a range of irritations. In humans, symptoms might include skin irritation or more severe reactions if ingested, such as oral discomfort, indigestion, and potentially other gastrointestinal issues. The plant's toxicity is a critical factor to consider, especially in homes with pets or small children, where accidental ingestion is more likely.

Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Toxic To Cats?

Yes, fiddle leaf figs pose a mild toxicity risk to cats. When a cat chews on the plant's leaves or stems, it releases a white, creamy sap rich in calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals are sharp and can cause significant irritation to the cat's gut and mouth. 

The immediate symptoms in cats can include gastrointestinal upset, characterized by vomiting and diarrhea. Cats may also experience excessive drooling, lethargy, and noticeable swelling around the mouth region. 

It's essential to monitor cats closely in homes with fiddle leaf figs and to seek veterinary care if ingestion occurs.

Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Toxic To Dogs?

Dogs are not immune to the toxicity of fiddle leaf figs either. The most toxic part of the plant for dogs is the leaf, which contains higher concentrations of the harmful sapogenin. 

If a dog ingests part of a fiddle leaf fig, they might exhibit several symptoms. These can range from oral discomfort and sores around the gums, tongue, and nose to more severe gastrointestinal discomfort. Affected dogs might have runny stools, vomiting, and show a general lack of energy or enthusiasm. 

Dog owners should be vigilant and prevent their pets from accessing these plants to avoid such health issues.

Toxicity to Humans and Other Pets

Fiddle leaf figs are not considered fatally toxic to humans, including babies, but can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested. The severity of the reaction depends on the extent of chewing, as the jagged crystals in the sap are exposed when the plant is chewed​​. 

Fiddle leaf figs are also toxic to other household pets such as birds, rabbits, rats, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, etc., with symptoms being fairly similar across different animals​​​​.

Safety Tips for Pet Owners

• Keep Fiddle Leaf Figs Out of Reach: Place the plant in a location inaccessible to pets. Elevated shelves or rooms where pets do not have access are ideal.

• Use Barriers or Repellents: To prevent pets, especially dogs and cats, from accessing the plant, consider using natural repellents like citrus peels, pepper, or specific pet repellents around the plant. Marigolds and other pet-repelling plants can also be effective​​.

• Monitoring and Immediate Action: If you suspect your pet has ingested part of a fiddle leaf fig, look for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, oral irritation, or skin rashes. Immediate veterinary consultation is recommended​​​​.

• Educate and Train Pets: While this might be more challenging, teaching pets to avoid certain areas or items in the house can help prevent them from ingesting toxic plants.

Prevention and Treatment

The best way to prevent poisoning is to place fiddle leaf figs out of reach of pets and children. If your pet ingests the plant, the first step is to rinse their mouth to remove the sap. Veterinary intervention is crucial, as they can assess the extent of poisoning and provide appropriate treatment. The treatment may involve tests to check for effects on the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, or liver​​.

Fiddle leaf figs are a beautiful addition to any home, but their toxicity to pets and humans should not be overlooked. By understanding the risks and taking preventive measures, you can enjoy these plants safely, keeping your household and pets healthy and happy.

Fern's Leafy Learnings

• Fiddle leaf figs contain a toxic sap that can cause irritation and discomfort to cats, dogs, and other pets if ingested or contacted.

• Symptoms of toxicity include oral irritation, gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rashes.

• Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if pets show signs of poisoning from fiddle leaf figs.

• Preventative measures, like keeping the plant out of reach and using natural repellents, are essential for pet safety.

• Education and training can help pets avoid toxic plants, ensuring a safe and harmonious coexistence with houseplants.

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