Is Sorrel Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)
Rumex scutatus
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Quick facts
| Toxic to dogs | Yes |
|---|---|
| Toxic to cats | Yes |
| Toxic to horses | Yes |
| Toxic component | Soluble oxalates (a different chemical form than the insoluble crystals in Araceae plants — these are absorbed and can affect calcium levels and kidney function systemically) |
| Onset of symptoms | Within a few hours |
| Indoor / outdoor | outdoor |
If your pet ate this plant
Both lines are staffed 24/7. A consultation fee applies to each. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
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Symptoms in dogs
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Tremors and kidney effects with large ingestion
Symptoms in cats
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
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What to do
Contact a vet for significant ingestion, especially of the leaves, which carry the highest oxalate concentration in this family.
Toxic component and mechanism
The toxic component in Sorrel is soluble oxalates (a different chemical form than the insoluble crystals in araceae plants — these are absorbed and can affect calcium levels and kidney function systemically).
What makes this plant different
Sorrel's tart, lemony flavor (from its oxalate content) is prized in some cuisines in small culinary amounts, but the same soluble oxalates become a genuine systemic concern at the larger quantities a grazing pet might consume directly from a garden.
Plant identification
- Scientific name
- Rumex scutatus
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Also known as
- Sorrel, Common Sorrel, Spinach-Dock, Narrow-leaved Dock, Garden sorrel
- Typically found
- outdoor
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Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control