Toxic Plants and Festive Season Hazards for Dogs in India

In this guide

India does not really have an autumn the way cooler countries do, but the festive season from Dussehra through Diwali and into winter brings its own mix of decorative plants, flowers, diyas, candles and celebratory clutter into Indian homes and gardens. Many of these are far more dangerous to a curious dog than owners realise.

Garden and ornamental plants common in India

Several plants found in Indian gardens, temple compounds and roadside plantings are toxic to dogs if chewed or eaten.

• Oleander (kaner): every part of this common flowering shrub, planted widely along Indian roads and temples, contains cardiac glycosides that can cause vomiting, an irregular heartbeat and death
• Crotons: popular as hedge and border plants, they can cause drooling, vomiting and mouth irritation
• Datura (dhatura): often grows wild; all parts are toxic and can cause disorientation, dilated pupils and seizures
• Castor plant (arandi): the seeds contain ricin, one of the most toxic natural compounds known, and can be fatal in small amounts
• Money plant and philodendron, grown widely as indoor plants, contain calcium oxalate crystals that irritate the mouth and throat
• Chrysanthemums and marigolds used in festive decoration and puja can cause mild stomach upset if chewed in quantity

Diwali and festive season hazards

The festive season adds a second layer of risk beyond plants.

• Diyas and candles: wax and wicks can cause an upset stomach, and hot wax can burn a curious nose or paw
• Firecracker debris: leftover crackers contain chemicals like potassium nitrate and sulphur that are toxic if chewed, quite apart from the injury risk from unexploded material
• Rangoli colours: many contain heavy metals or chemical dyes that are not meant to be ingested
• Sweets and mithai: excess sugar, and specifically anything containing chocolate, raisins or xylitol-based sweeteners, is a genuine risk during festive gifting
• Decorative lights and wiring: chewed wires are both an electrocution and choking hazard

Signs your dog may have ingested something toxic

• Sudden vomiting or diarrhoea
• Drooling more than usual
• Pawing at the mouth
• Disorientation, wobbliness or dilated pupils
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Seizures in severe cases

What to do

If you see your dog chewing on an unfamiliar plant or festive item, try to identify what it was and how much was eaten, and call your vet immediately rather than waiting for symptoms. During Diwali week especially, keep a note of your nearest 24-hour veterinary clinic, since regular clinics may be closed or busy. Keep plants out of reach where possible, supervise dogs closely during festive gatherings, and store crackers, candles and rangoli materials well away from paws and noses.

Article content © Ravi Teja. All rights reserved.