Yes, poinsettias are mildly toxic to cats
Poinsettias have a scary reputation, but poisoning is usually mild. The milky sap irritates the mouth and stomach, and serious illness is rare.
Poinsettias and cats: key facts
| Toxic to cats? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Scientific name | Euphorbia pulcherrima |
| Also called | Christmas star |
| Toxic compound | Diterpenoid esters in milky sap |
| Toxic parts | Milky sap in the leaves and stems |
| Signs usually start | Within minutes to hours |
| Plant type | Holiday plant |
Symptoms of poinsettias poisoning in cats
- Mouth irritation and drooling
- Vomiting
- Occasional diarrhea
- Skin or eye irritation from sap
Why poinsettias are toxic to cats
The milky sap contains irritating compounds that cause mouth and stomach irritation. Despite its reputation, serious poisoning is very rare.
What to do if your cat ate poinsettias
- 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 mouth irritation and drooling, vomiting, occasional diarrhea. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
Treatment and outlook
Rinse the mouth and wash any sap off the skin and eyes. Most pets need no treatment beyond monitoring; call your vet if vomiting continues.
How to keep your cat away from poinsettias
- Place poinsettias 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 poinsettias
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.
Poinsettias and cats: FAQ
Are poinsettias poisonous to cats?
Poinsettias are mildly toxic to cats. Diterpenoid esters in milky sap can cause mouth irritation and drooling and vomiting, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of poinsettias is toxic to cats?
Milky sap in the leaves and stems.
Can cats die from eating poinsettias?
It is very unlikely. Poinsettias usually cause mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.
How long after eating poinsettias will my cat show symptoms?
Within minutes to hours.
Are poinsettias toxic to dogs too?
Yes, poinsettias are mildly toxic to dogs.
Can a poinsettia kill a cat?
It is very unlikely. Poinsettias cause mild mouth irritation and vomiting. Lilies are far more dangerous to cats during the holidays.
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.