7 Festive Plants That Are Actually Extremely Poisonous
Decorating for the holidays is one of the best parts of the winter season, bringing joy and warmth to our homes. Adorning spaces with glittering lights, cherished ornaments, and DIY decorations is a delightful way to spend quality time with loved ones while preparing your home for festive gatherings. Essential to this tradition is the incorporation of greenery. Lush garlands, majestic evergreen trees, and fragrant wreaths are popular choices for introducing the beloved winter greenery indoors. However, some households might find faux greenery to be a safer alternative.
Much like certain houseplants, some festive plants can pose risks to pets and people. We asked veterinarian Lizzie Youens to offer vital advice on seven common festive plants that are toxic to pets. You don't have to forgo poinsettias or mistletoe entirely, but it's important to be cautious, especially with curious pets in the home. Read on to learn about the greenery you should handle with care this holiday season.
Read for more holiday decorating tips:
Holly
Holly bushes are bright and festive, but the berries and leaves are a danger to both pets and humans. If ingested, the leaves can cut and scratch at your mouth, throat, and intestines, while the berries can make you quite sick. For pets, Youens advises keeping them well-hydrated while the plant passes through their system to avoid a vet visit.
Autumn Crocus
The autumn crocus is one of few flowers that bloom in colder temperatures, and its bright hue can be attractive (and dangerous) to your furry friends. This plant contains a toxic alkaloid called colchicine. As well as severe gastrointestinal symptoms, your pet can also experience liver and kidney damage, respiratory failure, and damage to the central nervous system, so keep your pets away from these purple blooms during winter walks.
Related Story: 25 Winter Flowers That Love Cold Weather
Amaryllis
Amaryllises are bold flowers that are common gifts and centerpieces during the holidays, but Youen warns of adverse effects when eaten by pets. “Both the bulb and the flowers of the amaryllis plant contain toxins, including lycorine and other alkaloids, which are highly toxic to pets,” she explains. “Symptoms of ingestion can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount consumed. Common signs include vomiting, drooling, abdominal pain, and tremors. In more severe cases, pets may experience lethargy, a drop in blood pressure, and even seizures.”
Ivy
Ivy poisoning is rarely deadly in both pets and humans, but its dangers should still not be overlooked. Ingesting any kind of ivy plant can cause rashes, GI distress, and severe stomach pain. Opt for faux versions of ivy for your holiday decor, wreaths, and centerpieces.
Yew
Even just a small nibble of this plant can cause severe sickness, muscle weakness, and even sudden heart failure in pets. The berries may look tempting, but keep your beloved animals away from yew trees whether they're outdoors, in pots, or used in floral arrangements for your holiday table. This plant is equally dangerous to humans.
Poinsettia
A well-known Christmas plant that isn't pet-friendly, nearly all parts of the poinsettia are poisonous to animals. “The milky-white sap that the plant produces contains chemicals that can cause an irritant reaction in both humans and our fluffy friends. While it’s unlikely that a small amount of this will poison your pup, ingesting large amounts can lead to vomiting, drooling, and lethargy,” explains Youens.
Related Story: Everything to Know About Caring for a Poinsettia
Mistletoe
Mistletoe is often hung up high, out of reach of everyone, but for cats that like to climb, take extra care. For both pets and humans, this plant can cause nausea, vomiting, and even hallucinations. It's safe to touch, but never to ingest.
You Might Also Like
