Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) in Pets

Poinsettias are only mildly toxic to cats and dogs. See what signs to expect, simple first aid for sap on skin or in the mouth, and when a vet visit is actually needed.

What It Is

Poinsettia is the red-leaved Christmas plant. Its milky sap contains diterpene esters that irritate the mouth, stomach and skin. Its reputation as a deadly plant is undeserved: Pet Poison Helpline describes it as only mildly toxic to cats and dogs.

Where Pets Come Across It

Potted plants sold in December and kept on tables, windowsills and floors, often within easy reach of cats and puppies that like to chew leaves.

Which Animals Are Affected

Cats and dogs. Larger amounts can upset rabbits, birds and other small pets more because of their size.

Published Toxic Dose

No toxic dose is published, because serious poisoning is not expected. Most pets that chew a poinsettia show only mild, self-limiting signs. The calculator therefore shows no danger line for poinsettia.

Signs and How Soon They Appear

Drooling, licking lips, vomiting and occasionally diarrhoea soon after chewing. Sap on the skin or in the eyes can cause redness and itching. Signs usually settle without treatment.

What to Do Right Now

Rinse your pet's mouth with a little water and wipe any sap off the fur with a damp cloth. Offer water. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea is severe or lasts more than a few hours, or if a very small pet ate a lot. There is no need to make your pet vomit.

Where the poinsettia myth came from

The idea that poinsettias are deadly dates back to an unconfirmed report from the early 20th century and has been repeated ever since. Studies of poison centre data in people and animals have found no deaths and mostly mild or no symptoms. The milky latex is the irritant part, and some people with latex allergy react to it on their skin. Poinsettias are often treated with pesticides in commercial greenhouses, which can add to stomach upset if a pet chews a lot of leaves, so it is still sensible to keep the plant out of reach. Real holiday hazards to prioritise are chocolate, xylitol-sweetened treats, raisins in festive baking, lilies in bouquets, and tinsel or ribbon that cats swallow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources and References

• Pet Poison Helpline: Poinsettia
• ASPCA: Poinsettia
• Merck Veterinary Manual: Houseplants and Ornamentals Toxic to Animals

Related Poisons