My Dog Licked Aloe Vera Gel [Here’s What to Do]

Having a dog is the best decision you’ll ever make! Except for when they eat or lick things they shouldn’t, like aloe vera gel. This can present a unique challenge for pet owners. Today we are going to be talking about why some dogs like to lick aloe vera gel and what are some of the worrying consequences that come with it.

dog licked aloe vera gel

What Are the Dangers of Dogs Licking Aloe Vera Gel?

While aloe vera is great for humans, it’s not so great for dogs. If your dog licks or eats aloe vera, it’ll likely end up with a belly ache. The gel contains a substance called anthraquinone, which is known to cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other unpleasant symptoms in dogs. But wait, it gets worse! If they consume a lot of aloe vera gel, it can lead to dehydration and serious damage to their liver and kidneys.

What’s Harmful in Aloe Vera Gel for Dogs?

  • Anthraquinones: These compounds found in aloe vera gel can cause digestive problems such as vomiting and diarrhea in dogs due to their irritant properties. They can also act as cathartics, causing excessive loss of fluid in the digestive tract and leading to dehydration.
  • Aloin: Aloin is a type of anthraquinone that is known to cause significant digestive issues in dogs, including abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. This compound can also affect the liver and kidneys, leading to more serious health problems if ingested in large amounts.
  • Saponins: Saponins are naturally occurring compounds in aloe vera that have soap-like properties. They can cause digestive irritation and lead to the formation of foamy bubbles in the intestines, causing abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. In severe cases, saponins can even damage the intestinal wall, leading to more serious health problems.
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What Are the Signs of Aloe Vera Gel Poisoning in Dogs?

If your dog has ingested aloe vera gel, you may notice symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and tiredness. In severe cases, your pup may also become dehydrated, with a dry mouth, sunken eyes, and low energy levels.

Keep Your Dog Away From Aloe Vera Gel

Make sure all aloe vera products are out of reach. Store them in a secure cabinet or on a high shelf, and always keep an eye on your pet when using any products with aloe vera in them. If your dog has a habit of chewing on things it shouldn’t, consider using a bitter-tasting spray to keep them away from aloe vera and other harmful items.

What to Do if You’re Concerned About Your Dog’s Health

If your dog has licked some aloe vera gel, the first step is to call your vet. If possible, bring the substance your dog ingested with you to the vet. If your dog is showing severe symptoms like seizures, collapsing, or difficulty breathing, go to the emergency vet right away. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for advice, but keep in mind there’s a fee for this service.

In conclusion, aloe vera gel can sometimes be dangerous for dogs and can lead to serious health problems if ingested. Keep all aloe vera products out of reach, supervise your pet, and seek veterinary care if you suspect aloe vera poisoning. If you need more information on pet poisoning, check out the ASPCA or Pet Poison Helpline websites.