Can Dogs Eat Rhubarb? 5 Health Risks of Rhubarb for Dogs

Dogs cannot eat rhubarb due to the oxalic acid in the plant, which triggers a reaction in canines and makes rhubarb poisonous. All parts of the plant—including the rhubarb stalk and leaves—are hazardous to dogs. Since rhubarb tastes sour to your furry friend, most pets avoid eating it or will spit it out if they do. Both cooked and raw rhubarb trigger the same reaction in small and large animals. Some common symptoms of rhubarb poisoning in dogs include dilated eyes, labored breathing, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, excessive drooling and salivation, and a swollen tongue.

Some of the health risks associated with rhubarb toxicity include:

1. 1. Blocked airways: Swelling is one of the main symptoms of rhubarb poisoning in dogs. While most of the swelling occurs around the mouth, it can spread to your dog’s lungs and airway. Labored breathing is a sign of a swollen or blocked respiratory system.
2. 2. Gastrointestinal problems: The high amounts of dietary fiber in rhubarb can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. Rhubarb is also dangerous because large quantities of oxalate salts can burn and irritate your dog’s gastrointestinal tract. Although rare, dogs can develop renal failure after rhubarb ingestion.
3. 3. Heart complications: In severe cases of rhubarb poisoning, some dogs may experience heart problems, such as cardiac arrhythmia. The crystals in the rhubarb plant can disrupt the electrical signals in your dog’s body, resulting in an irregular heartbeat.
4. 4. Kidney failure: Rhubarb plants contain a compound called oxalic acid, which causes the formation of crystals in your dog’s urinary tract. When these crystals bind together, they form kidney stones. In severe cases, the soluble calcium oxalate crystals can cause a sudden drop in calcium, resulting in kidney damage or kidney failure. Another symptom of rhubarb poisoning is blood in urine, so seek medical attention if you notice this with your pet.
5. 5. Skin irritation: If your dog walks through or rolls around in a patch of rhubarb, they may develop itchy or burning skin. The crystals in the rhubarb stems and leaves can trigger a reaction, so give your dog a bath to remove any irritants.

If your dog eats rhubarb leaves or the red stalks of the plant, consult your veterinarian. Rinse your dog's mouth with cool water and give them an antihistamine to relieve the symptoms and pain associated with rhubarb poisoning. If your pet consumes large amounts of rhubarb, take your dog to the emergency vet.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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