You only care about what’s best for your dog as a dog owner. Most likely, you’ve already done a ton of research on what he can and cannot eat as well as what products are safe for him. But as with all research, the results from the Internet can be unclear!
The safety of natural products is one issue that frequently causes owners to stumble. Because natural products don’t contain the chemicals, additives, or other synthetic ingredients found in many manufactured goods, it is simple to assume that they are the best. Given that we are aware of their negative effects on dogs, shouldn’t natural products like plants and vegetables be safe?
Unfortunately, while many plants and herbs have great benefits for both humans and dogs, not all of them do. In fact, some plants can be quite harmful.
That’s the case with aloe vera. A type of flowering succulent plant called aloe vera has a wide range of incredible therapeutic advantages. Due to the numerous benefits of its gel-filled leaves, it is frequently referred to as a “wonder plant.” However, it appears that dogs and aloe vera do not mix well for a number of reasons.
Can Aloe Vera Be Toxic To Dogs?
Yes, if you disregard this warning or if your dog eats an indoor aloe plant, aloe vera can be toxic. Which part of the aloe plant to use when giving your dog The clear gel will help your dog – a lot. However, there is a component of the aloe plant that can be harmful to him. And that’s the aloe latex.
The latex is the yellow layer found between the green leaf and clear gel when you break open an aloe leaf. If applied topically to a dog who has a latex allergy, it contains a naturally occurring substance called aloin that may result in skin problems.
Aloin also has laxative properties. Because of its strength and effectiveness as a toxin cleanser, many people consume aloe internally. However, excessive amounts of aloin in dogs can cause diarrhea, gastrointestinal irritability, and excessive electrolyte loss.
The good news is that giving aloe to your dog without aloe latex is simple.
Susana has always been around animals and is a devoted animal lover. She has volunteered at numerous Southern California animal shelters. She lives with her husband, son, two dogs, and one cat in a loving home. In her free time, she likes to make pottery, play the piano, experiment with new Italian recipes, and go hiking with her family and dogs.
Aloe vera for dogs is available in several forms. Aloe vera plants’ leaves can be broken open by pet owners, or they can buy aloe vera gels or sprays. Aloe vera pet shampoo is yet another well-liked aloe vera item for dogs. These shampoos also often contain other soothing ingredients, like oatmeal. These specific pet shampoos can be applied twice weekly to treat various skin conditions.
Additionally, some veterinary professionals advise aloe vera for canines recovering from surgery. The gel can be applied to the healing surgical incision. It will reduce some itching in the area, aid in healing, and hasten recovery. If a dog ingests a small amount of this plant extract while licking a wound, it usually won’t cause any harm. However, because aloe vera can have a bad taste, not all dogs will attempt to lick an incision covered in it.
However, some experts advise against giving dogs aloe vera internally. They assert that this plant contains saponins, a class of chemical compounds used as sudsing agents in some detergents. Some dogs may become ill from these substances, especially when they are in large doses.
Aloe Vera Side Effects in Dogs
It’s always a good idea to speak with your veterinarian before adding anything new to your dog’s wellness routine. Your veterinarian can assist you in identifying potential harmful side effects of aloe vera or recommend the best products based on your dog’s needs.
Finding the right product is crucial because aloe vera also has laxative properties, and if your dog consumes too much of it, it could result in very loose stools, according to Ochoa.
Animals that consume aloe plants directly may experience diarrhea or vomiting. Call your veterinarian right away if your dog exhibits these symptoms following exposure to an aloe product.
FAQ
Can I use aloe vera on my dogs itchy skin?
Aloe can be used safely for the following: easing an itchy or painful hot spot Eczema, flaky skin, or moisturizing your dog’s dry nose. Soothing heat rash, sunburn, or bug bites.
What happens if a dog licks aloe vera gel?
The plant contains a substance called saponin, which is poisonous to both children and animals. Aloe vera consumption can result in severe diarrhea, frequent vomiting, and low blood sugar. The toxicity may even be so severe as to result in the destruction of red blood cells, which can be fatal if not immediately treated.
What can you put on dog’s irritated skin?
Calendula, green tea, and chamomile all have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that make them excellent additions to a dog bath for itchy skin. For dogs with hot, itchy patches of skin that could be rubbed raw, these soaks work best.