Why is it dangerous to pets?
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) contains digitoxin and digoxin, the same drugs used in human heart medicine — but in uncontrolled amounts. They slow conduction through the heart and can cause heart block, arrhythmias and cardiac arrest.
Leaves are most toxic and remain dangerous when dried or wilted, including in floral arrangements and compost.
Why speed matters
Delaying care significantly worsens outcomes. Some signs appear hours or days later, so "looks fine right now" is not a reason to wait.
Symptoms of foxglove poisoning
- Vomiting, drooling, loss of appetite
- Slow, weak or irregular heartbeat
- Wobbliness, collapse, fainting
- Dilated pupils, blurred vision behaviour (bumping into things)
- Seizures and sudden death in severe cases
What to do right now
- This is an emergency even if the pet looks normal — call and go now.
- Bring plant material so the vet can confirm it is foxglove and not a look-alike.
- Never induce vomiting at home for a suspected cardiac toxin.
- Tell the vet about any heart medication the pet already takes.
Sources & further reading
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — pet poison database & dosage references
- Pet Poison Helpline — toxicology triage guidelines
- Merck Veterinary Manual — toxicology monographs
- Vets Now (UK) — emergency toxicosis guidance
Other poisonings with overlapping signs
- Decongestants (Pseudoephedrine, Phenylephrine) — shares signs: dilated pupils, vomiting
- Sleep Aids (Melatonin, Zolpidem, Valerian) — shares signs: wobbliness, vomiting
- Essential Oil Poisoning — shares signs: vomiting, wobbliness
Owners also ask
- How can I prevent my dog from eating a decongestant tablet left on the party table?
- My cat chewed open an old bottle of valerian root supplements that might be mouldy — what should I do?
Frequently asked questions
Is Foxglove (Digitalis) poisonous to a dog or cat?
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) contains digitoxin and digoxin, the same drugs used in human heart medicine — but in uncontrolled amounts. They slow conduction through the heart and can cause heart block, arrhythmias and cardiac arrest.
What are the symptoms of foxglove poisoning?
Vomiting, drooling, loss of appetite; Slow, weak or irregular heartbeat; Wobbliness, collapse, fainting; Dilated pupils, blurred vision behaviour (bumping into things)
What should I do if my pet ate Foxglove (Digitalis)?
This is an emergency even if the pet looks normal — call and go now. Bring plant material so the vet can confirm it is foxglove and not a look-alike. Never induce vomiting at home for a suspected cardiac toxin.
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