Houseplant
Is Poinsettia toxic to cats and dogs?
Euphorbia pulcherrima · also called Christmas star
Cats
Mildly toxicDogs
Mildly toxicPoinsettias have a scary reputation but are only mildly toxic. The milky sap irritates the mouth and stomach; serious poisoning is very unlikely.
By Maya Hart
If your pet chewed it
- Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and offer a drink.
- Most pets recover within a few hours; call your vet if drooling, vomiting or pawing at the mouth continues.
Signs to watch for
- Drooling
- Licking lips
- Vomiting
- Skin or eye irritation from sap
What is harmful
- Parts
- Leaves and stems (milky sap)
- Substance
- Diterpenoid euphorbol esters in the sap
The details
The idea that poinsettias are deadly began with a 1919 story that was never confirmed. Pet poison helplines see many calls about them each December; almost all are mild. Holly, mistletoe and lilies in festive bouquets are much more dangerous.
Pet-safe alternatives
Questions owners ask
Is Poinsettia toxic to cats?
Yes — mildly toxic to cats. Harmful parts: leaves and stems (milky sap).
Is Poinsettia toxic to dogs?
Yes — mildly toxic to dogs. Harmful parts: leaves and stems (milky sap).
What happens if a pet eats poinsettia?
drooling, licking lips, vomiting, skin or eye irritation from sap.
What should I do if my pet chewed it?
Rinse your pet’s mouth with water and offer a drink. Most pets recover within a few hours; call your vet if drooling, vomiting or pawing at the mouth continues.
What are pet-safe alternatives to poinsettia?
Christmas cactus, Moth orchid, African violet.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts
