PupkeeperToxicEmergency
Is castor bean plant toxic to dogs?
Extremely toxic. Castor beans contain ricin, which can cause severe vomiting, kidney failure, seizures and death.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Take any plant pieces away and rinse your dog's mouth with water.
- Bring a piece of the plant in a bag, or a photo, to help identify it.
- Get help even if your dog seems fine; signs often start 12 to 48 hours later.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
- Don't give milk, oil, salt or other home remedies unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Burning or irritated mouth
- Increased thirst
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
- Loss of appetite and weakness
- Trembling or wobbliness
- Fever
- Seizures
When signs appear: 12-48 hours
Why
The seeds contain ricin, a highly potent toxin that stops the body's cells from making proteins.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Castor Bean Plant
- Pet Poison Helpline: Castor Bean
- Pet Poison Helpline: Toxic Plants to Pets (first aid)
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.