Are flocked trees toxic to dogs?
by
Sarah
+7
Hi again! The other day I asked about flocked trees being messy because I was concerned about shedding, but then I saw someone else ask if flocked trees are toxic to cats, and realized I hadn't even thought about my dog!
I'm guessing if flocking is bad for cats, it's also the same for dogs. I know some things that are bad for cats are fine for dogs, and vice versa, so I want to be sure about any DIY flocking powder ingredients.
What are the best ways to flock a Christmas tree that won't harm my dog?
Hey Sarah, I remember that question so you may have seen my answer already...
Yes, traditional flocking as well as some DIY flocking powders can be toxic for pets, but this is a great alternative that uses only coconut and liquid cornstarch: https://www.hometalk.com/diy/decorate/christmas/flock-a-christmas-tree-the-child-pet-safe-way-25211174
Both ingredients are safe for dogs, but not ideal for them to eat, especially in large quantities, but I guess that's the same for anything they find on the ground and have a nibble of!
How to Flock a Christmas Tree the Child & Pet Safe Way
Some pets love to chew on the flocked branches of indoor Christmas trees, especially the kitties. This fake snow is considered mildly toxic but can lead to intestinal blockages if too much is ingested. Similarly if an excessive amount of pine needles are ingested they can also cause an intestinal obstruction.
Flocking is not good for dogs if ingested.
What a sweet picture! I wouldn't risk it. Here's some info.
https://www.google.com/search?channel=ftr&client=firefox-b-1-d&q=are+flocked+trees+toxic+to+dogs%3F
Not all flocking is toxic to dogs so do your homework on what you choose.
The flocking is typically considered mildly toxic but can also lead to intestinal issues if ingested, so I would recommend against it!
I don’t have the definitive answer but knowing it’s generally not good for pets and can be toxic, I personally avoid it as better to be safe. If you’re keen on trying it still, maybe smaller trees up and away as decor might work for you where you can control any flocking that falls off easier.
If pets eat flocking, or fake snow, it can be quite dangerous. Particularly cats, some pets like biting at the flocked limbs of interior Christmas trees. Although this artificial snow is thought to be somewhat hazardous, consuming too much of it can cause intestinal obstructions.
Not unless your dog wants to eat it!
Hi Sarah, if your dog is a chewer, it is only mildly toxic only of ingested. No damage from chewing it.