POINSETTIAS
This red-leafed holiday staple is widely known for its beauty – and for its high levels of toxicity. But poinsettia doesn’t deserve this bad rap! In fact, poinsettia are considered mildly toxic. Pets that ingest poinsettias generally have no clinical signs, but may experience some mild gastrointestinal discomfort. If the leaves or sap are rubbed on skin, the latex-containing sap can cause a mild, irritating rash.
MISTLETOE AND HOLLY
If these humble looking plants are ingested by pets, they may experience gastrointestinal upset, or show clinical signs of poisoning such as a change in mental function, difficulty breathing, or a low heart rate. If a large enough amount of this plant is ingested, seizures and death may follow. The leaves and berries of mistletoe and holly plants, even the dried plants, should be kept well out of your pet’s reach, or kept out of the home altogether. If you think your cat has ingested holly or mistletoe, contact your vet immediately for assistance or call the APCC 24-hour emergency poison hotline at 1-888-426-4435.
LILIES
Lilies are extremely toxic to cats. The ingestion of any part of any type of lily can lead to kidney failure. The clinical signs can include vomiting, depression, or loss of appetite. If you suspect your cat of ingesting lilies, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. There is no antidote, and intense supportive care is needed for cats to recover.