Is Rosary Pea Toxic to Dogs?
Also known as: Crab’s Eye, Jequirity Bean, Precatory Bean, Love Bean, Abrus precatorius · Abrus precatorius
What makes it toxic
Abrin, a ribosome-inactivating toxalbumin contained in the seeds. Swallowed whole, a seed may pass intact, but any chewing releases the toxin, which destroys cells in the gut, liver and kidneys.
Warning signs to watch for
Deceptive delay of several hours to days, then severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, dehydration, lethargy, seizures and multi-organ failure.
What to do if your dog eats it
Treat any seed ingestion as an emergency. Go to a vet or ER immediately with the seed remnants and induce nothing at home. Imaging may locate whole seeds and hospital care supports the organs under attack.
Common questions
How does one red-and-black bean kill a dog?
Abrin shuts down protein synthesis in cells once released by chewing. Its potency per gram rivals ricin, and a single seed contains many lethal doses for small animals.
Where does rosary pea grow, and is it in the US?
It naturalizes in south Florida and Hawaii and appears in imported seed jewelry. Check what your dog is sniffing on tropical walks and inspect any seed crafts at home.
More plants checked for dogs
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.