My Dog Ate a Monkey Orange Seed! A Guide to South African Plant & Fruit Dangers
Every South African pet parent’s heart skips a beat when they discover their furry friend munching on something unknown in the garden. If you’ve just found out your dog ate a monkey orange seed, you’re not alone – and you’re right to be concerned. Understanding which common South African plants and fruits pose serious risks to your pets could save their life.
Why South African Pet Parents Need to Be Extra Vigilant
Our beautiful country is home to unique indigenous plants and popular garden species that, whilst stunning to look at, can be deadly to our four-legged family members. From the monkey orange seeds scattered across suburban gardens to the ornamental cycads gracing many front yards, toxic plants are closer than you might think.
The Monkey Orange Seed Danger
Monkey Orange (Strychnos species) fruit may look harmless, but the seeds inside are toxic to dogs. If your dog has consumed monkey orange seeds, they may experience gastrointestinal upset and, in severe cases, paralysis. This indigenous fruit is commonly found across South Africa, making it a hidden danger in many neighbourhoods.
What to do: Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect ingestion. Time is critical.
Most Dangerous South African Plants for Dogs and Cats
- Cycads (Sago Palm)
- Perhaps the most lethal plant commonly found in South African gardens, cycads are extremely poisonous. All parts are toxic, particularly the seeds.
- Symptoms: Initial gastrointestinal distress followed by severe liver damage, often fatal if untreated
- Risk level: Extremely high – even small amounts can be deadly
- Lilies (Multiple Species)
- Lilies are exceptionally toxic to cats, though dogs can also be affected. Species including Arum lilies, Clivias, and Tiger lilies pose serious risks.
- Symptoms in cats: Acute kidney failure within 24-72 hours from ingesting even a small piece or pollen
- Risk level: Critical for cats, high for dogs
- Syringa Berry Tree (Melia azedarach)
- A common sight in South African gardens, the Syringa Berry Tree produces highly toxic berries.
- Symptoms: Tremors, severe gastrointestinal upset, potential fatality
- Risk level: Very high
- Yesterday-Today-and-Tomorrow (Brunsfelsia species)
- This attractive flowering plant is deceptively dangerous.
- Symptoms: Excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, seizures
- Risk level: High
- Oleander (Nerium oleander)
- Despite its popularity as an ornamental plant, oleander is extremely toxic.
- Symptoms: Heart arrhythmias, digestive distress
- Risk level: Very high
- Cannabis (Dagga, Marijuana)
- With changing attitudes towards cannabis, more households may have plants accessible to pets.
- Symptoms: Disorientation, tremors, seizures, potentially coma
- Risk level: High
- Datura (Stinkblaar, Jimsonweed)
- This wild plant causes severe neurological symptoms.
- Symptoms: Hallucinations, dilated pupils, rapid heartbeat, tremors, seizures
- Risk level: Very high
- Delicious Monster (Monstera deliciosa) and Elephant Ears
- Popular houseplants that contain calcium oxalate crystals.
- Symptoms: Severe mouth and throat irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing
- Risk level: Moderate to high
- Chinkerinchee (Star of Bethlehem)
- The poisonous bulbs of this plant are particularly dangerous.
- Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of coordination (ataxia), blindness
- Risk level: High
- Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica)
- South Africa’s indigenous Calla Lily contains harmful calcium oxalates.
- Symptoms: Burning sensations in mouth, gastrointestinal distress
- Risk level: Moderate to high
Other Toxic Plants and Substances
Additional hazards include:
- Euphorbia species (including Poinsettia): Vomiting, skin irritation
- Kalanchoe: Vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, heart issues
- Macadamia nuts: Weakness, tremors, hyperthermia
- Onions and garlic: Anaemia, gastrointestinal upset
- Grapes and raisins: Kidney failure
- Castor oil seeds: Severe toxicity, potentially fatal
Warning Signs Your Pet Has Been Poisoned
Time is absolutely critical when dealing with plant poisoning. Watch for these symptoms:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Excessive drooling or salivation
- Weakness, lethargy, or collapse
- Loss of coordination, stumbling, or tremors
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Seizures or muscle spasms
- Unusual behaviour or disorientation
- Loss of appetite
Remember: Some symptoms may not appear immediately. Kidney and liver damage can develop over 24-72 hours.
What to Do If Your Pet Eats a Toxic Plant
Immediate Action Steps:
- Stay calm – Your pet needs you to think clearly
- Remove access – Take away any remaining plant material immediately
- Identify the plant – Take a photo or sample if possible (wear gloves)
- Contact your vet immediately – Don’t wait for symptoms to appear
- Do NOT induce vomiting – This can sometimes cause more harm
- Do NOT give home remedies – Milk, activated charcoal, or other treatments should only be given under veterinary guidance
- Keep your pet comfortable – Restrict movement and monitor closely
Information to Provide Your Vet:
- Type of plant (photos help enormously)
- Approximate amount consumed
- Time since ingestion
- Your pet’s weight
- Any symptoms observed
- Your pet’s medical history
Prevention: Keeping Your South African Garden Pet-Safe
Garden Planning
- Research before planting – Check toxicity before adding new plants to your garden
- Create pet-free zones – Use barriers around toxic plants you wish to keep
- Choose pet-safe alternatives – Opt for non-toxic plants like African violets, Boston ferns, or spider plants
Supervision and Training
- Supervise outdoor time – Especially for puppies and curious dogs
- Train the “leave it” command – Essential for preventing ingestion
- Remove fallen fruit promptly – Don’t let monkey oranges or other toxic fruits accumulate
Emergency Preparedness
- Save emergency numbers – Keep your vet’s number and after-hours emergency clinic details readily available
- Know your nearest emergency vet – Time matters in poisoning cases
- Take photos of your garden plants – This helps with identification if ingestion occurs
Pet-Safe South African Garden Alternatives
Consider these non-toxic options for your garden:
- African violets
- Spider plants
- Boston ferns
- Bamboo palm
- Herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme
- Snapdragons
- Petunias
- Marigolds
The Bottom Line
South African gardens are beautiful but can harbour hidden dangers for our beloved pets. Whether it’s monkey orange seeds, cycad nuts, or lily petals, knowing which plants pose risks and acting swiftly if ingestion occurs can mean the difference between life and death.
When in doubt, always contact your veterinarian. It’s far better to have a false alarm than to wait too long when your pet’s life hangs in the balance.
Have you had a scare with toxic plants? Share your experience in the comments below to help other South African pet parents stay vigilant.
Emergency Contacts:
- SPCA Poison Helpline: Keep your local SPCA number on hand
- Your regular veterinarian
- Nearest 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for medical emergencies or concerns about your pet’s health.
