
There are many things to keep in mind while having dogs as pets. Depending on where you live, one may be the choice to have palms in your yard. Which are the palms that are poisonous and how can they harm your dog? Read on to find out.
People love planting palm trees in their gardens and yards because of their sweeping foliage and attractive structure. While thinking about using palm trees in your garden, toxicity and safety issues should play a crucial role in your decision. Especially if you have a dog at home.
Out of all the species of palms, there are some that are extremely prickly and thorny, while some bear nuts and berries that can be troublesome to you as well as your pet. Therefore, knowing the names of the poisonous palms and which part of the tree is hazardous will keep you and your dog in a safe spot.
Palm Tree Seeds that are Poisonous to Dogs
● Sago Palm
Also known as Cycas revoluta, this palm species is not only toxic to dogs, but also to humans. The seeds and nuts of sago are the most toxic parts of the palm. This palm contains a toxic chemical called cycasin. When ingested in large quantities (any part of the plant), it can harm the liver and neurological system permanently. Other than this, diarrhea, dizziness, bleeding from orifices, hind-limb paralysis, and seizures are a few signs a dog will show after its ingestion.
● Foxtail Palm
Scientifically known as Wodyetia bifurcata, it has been widely used for landscape gardening. The fruit it bears resembles a peach. Diterpene is a toxic compound found extensively in its seeds and bark. Although these are considered to be beautiful ornamental palms, it is advised not to have them around if you have dogs. It is harmful to the dogs. Not just the seeds and bark, but the entire palm is toxic.
● Cardboard Palm
The alternative names for this palm are Jamaican Sago, Mexican Cycad, and the scientific name Zamia furfuracea. The cardboard palm propagates only through its bright red seeds (most toxic part). Known to be the most poisonous palm after sago, ingestion of any part of the cardboard palm can be highly toxic to the dog. The early symptoms are excessive dehydration, and the dog can gradually suffer from liver and kidney failure, leading to paralysis.
● Formosa Palm
This palm is also known as Taiwan sugar, Taiwan arenga palm, Arenga engleri, or dwarf sugar palm. This palm tree is characterized by olive green leaves, reddish-orange flowers, and purple fruits. But don’t be fooled by these purple beauties. The outer coat of these fruits is so toxic that they can cause rashes to the hand when it comes in contact. They are very toxic to your dog so I would steer clear of them.
● Fishtail Palm
You can also call it Caryota, Caryota mitis, or just a Fishtail Palm. The fruits comprise acidic oxalic acid, which can inflame the skin when it comes in contact. Gardeners always use thick gloves while dealing with this palm.
A few seeds of this palm can kill a dog. Again, you should completely avoid having this palm with dogs around.
● Queen Sago
Widely known as fern palm or false sago, the queen palm tree (Cycas circinalis) seeds are loaded with lethal neurotoxins. These are bright orange seeds that are large and poisonous. When ingested, the dog can be paralyzed or killed. In some parts of the world, the seeds it bears are soaked into water to remove the poison, and then ground into a flour for making soups and tortillas. The water that is soaked in can be used as a strong poison. So so strong, in fact, it could kill a goat, dog, or cow.
Apart from these, the king palm tree seeds and royal palm tree seeds are also not suggested if you have a dog at home.
Other Potential Harmful Palms
Below is the list of the scientific names of various toxic palms to avoid if you have pets.
● Acanthophoenix crinita
● Astrocaryum standleyanum
● Bactris gasipaes
● Calamus latifolia
● Mauritiella armata
● Oncosperma horridum
● Plectocomia elongata
● Roscheria melanochaetes
● Salacca zalaca
● Trithrinax campestris
● Verschaffeltia splendida
● Trithrinax brasiliensis
● Pigafetta elata
● Zombia antillarum
● Washingtonia robusta
● Arenga australisica
● Areca catechu
● Phoenix canariensis
● Butia capitata
● Dypsis decaryi
● Chamaerops humilis
● Acrocomia aculeata
Protect your dog by avoiding these plants and watch out for poisoning symptoms like diarrhea, dizziness, depression, abdominal pain, and nosebleeds. If you notice any of these symptoms, rush to doctor without any delay.