Echinacea has become a very popular supplement, which is used to support the immune system. Many people use this herb on a regular basis.
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Does echinacea make dogs sick? Can echinacea be toxic to dogs?
What is Echinacea?
Echinacea is a type of flowering plant that’s in the same family as daisies! And it’s a common ingredient in many cold and flu remedies. These plants originate in North American and are sometimes called coneflowers, due to the shape of the plant’s flowers. The petals of the flowers may be purple or pink. There are nine types of echinacea but only three are commonly used in herbal remedies :
- angustifolia
- pallida
- purpurea
This plant is thought by some to offer several health benefits include antimicrobial and antiviral properties. It’s often used to treat:
- Bronchitis
- Colds and coughs
- Gingivitis
- Canker sores
- Upper respiratory infections
- Yeast infections
- Ear infections
- And more
Echinacea can come in different forms:
- Squeezed as juice
- An extract put into capsules
- Fresh or dried for use in teas
- Dietary supplements (may come in pill form)
- A preparation to apply to the skin
Some studies have shown that different types of echinacea can truly boost the immune system. But can echinacea make dogs sick?
Echinacea & Dogs
Unfortunately, echinacea ingested in large amounts can be toxic to dogs. The good news is the toxicity level is mild.
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has ingested echinacea:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Lethargy
- Abdominal tenderness
While this may not be a serious medical emergency, it’s still a good idea to call the vet. They can give you the next steps needed to treat your dog if he needs treatment. And be sure to take a portion of the plant or the supplement with you to the doctor. If there’s a container, it’s a good idea to take this along, as well.
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Ask a Vet Live NowTreatment of Echinacea Toxicity in Dogs
Most dogs may suffer mild symptoms after ingesting echinacea. This is more dangerous for dogs who may be older, have underlying kidney or liver issues, or stomach issues.
If your fur baby is vomiting quite a bit, then the vet will try to give him IV therapy to provide fluids. The vet may also give your dog an antiemetic to help stop the vomiting.
In most cases, echinacea doesn’t cause serious symptoms in dogs. However, it’s best to take your canine companion to the vet if your dog is having concerning symptoms. Your dog has an excellent chance of making a full recovery.
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Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
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