Yes, holly is mildly toxic to cats
Holly contains saponins that irritate the stomach, and its spiny leaves can injure the mouth. Poisoning is usually mild.
Holly and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Ilex opaca and Ilex aquifolium |
| Also called | American holly, English holly, winterberry |
| Toxic compound | Saponins |
| Toxic parts | Berries and leaves |
| Signs usually start | Usually within a few hours |
| Plant type | Holiday plant |
Symptoms of holly poisoning in cats
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Drooling
- Lip smacking and head shaking from the spiny leaves
Why holly is toxic to cats
Saponins are soap-like compounds that irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines. They are poorly absorbed, so the effects are mostly limited to vomiting, drooling and diarrhea.
What to do if your cat ate holly
- Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
- Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
- Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
- Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
- Watch for vomiting and diarrhea, drooling, lip smacking and head shaking from the spiny leaves. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
Treatment and outlook
Signs are usually mild and self-limiting. A vet may give anti-nausea medicine and fluids if vomiting or diarrhea is persistent, or if a small or young pet becomes dehydrated.
How to keep your cat away from holly
- Place holly on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
- Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
- Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.
- Holiday decorations add extra risks: tinsel, ribbon, ornaments and light cords. Supervise cats around the tree and table.
Pet-safe alternatives to holly
If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:
- Christmas CactusNon-toxic
- RosesNon-toxic
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- SunflowersNon-toxic
- Gerbera DaisiesNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
- BambooNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for cats.
Holly and cats: FAQ
Is holly poisonous to cats?
Holly is mildly toxic to cats. Saponins can cause vomiting and diarrhea and drooling, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of holly is toxic to cats?
Berries and leaves.
Can cats die from eating holly?
It is very unlikely. Holly usually causes mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
How long after eating holly will my cat show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Is holly toxic to dogs too?
Yes, holly is mildly toxic to dogs.
Other plants toxic to cats
- Peace LiliesMildly toxic
- Calla LiliesMildly toxic
- TulipsMildly toxic
- HyacinthsMildly toxic
- CarnationsMildly toxic
- DaisiesMildly toxic
- ChrysanthemumsMildly toxic
- Baby's BreathMildly toxic
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants for Cats
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Poisonous Plants
Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.