Rhubarb is a popular garden plant, with its tart stalks often used in human cuisine. However, the plant’s chemical composition makes it unsuitable and potentially dangerous for many common household pets and livestock if ingested.
Understanding Rhubarb’s Toxicity
The primary compounds responsible for rhubarb’s toxicity are oxalic acid and its soluble salts, known as oxalates. These substances are present throughout the entire plant, though they are found in highest concentrations within the large, triangular leaves.
When consumed, soluble oxalates are absorbed into the bloodstream. They then bind with calcium and magnesium ions in the body, which can lead to a drop in blood calcium levels, a condition called hypocalcemia. Beyond affecting calcium levels, the formation of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals can cause irritation and damage. These crystals can precipitate in the kidneys, impairing kidney function, leading to acute renal failure. These crystals also irritate the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract, causing immediate discomfort.
Animals Vulnerable to Rhubarb Poisoning
Many animals are susceptible to rhubarb poisoning, ranging from common household pets to various types of livestock. Dogs and cats are particularly at risk, often encountering rhubarb in gardens.
Symptoms in pets can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Other signs include lethargy, weakness, tremors, or pawing at the mouth due to oral irritation. Severe cases may show calcium imbalances or kidney damage, leading to changes in thirst or urination, bloody urine, muscle twitching, or seizures.
Livestock such as cattle, horses, sheep, and goats can also be poisoned by rhubarb, especially if they graze in areas where the plant is present. Large quantities consumed by these animals can lead to signs like staggering, salivation, and convulsions. Large amounts can overwhelm their system, leading to hypocalcemia, kidney distress, and potentially fatal outcomes.
Preventing Ingestion and Responding to Exposure
Preventing animals from accessing rhubarb plants is the most effective way to avoid poisoning. For pet owners, this involves securing garden areas with fencing to keep curious animals away from rhubarb patches. Proper disposal of rhubarb leaves, which contain the highest toxin concentration, is also important; place them in a secure compost bin or trash can away from animals. Even cooked rhubarb is not safe for dogs, as cooking does not eliminate the oxalates.
If an animal is suspected of having ingested rhubarb, immediate action is necessary. Contacting a veterinarian or an animal poison control center is crucial without delay. Provide information on the amount ingested, plant parts eaten, and the animal’s size to assist in determining the best course of action.
Initial steps may include rinsing the animal’s mouth with cool water or milk to alleviate irritation. Veterinary treatment often includes intravenous fluids for kidney support and hydration, along with medications to manage symptoms and correct calcium imbalances. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian. Early intervention improves the prognosis.