Yes, holly is mildly toxic to dogs
Holly contains saponins that irritate the stomach, and its spiny leaves can injure the mouth. Poisoning is usually mild.
Holly and dogs: key facts
| Toxic to dogs? | Mildly toxic |
| Toxic to cats? | 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 dogs
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Drooling
- Lip smacking and head shaking from the spiny leaves
Why holly is toxic to dogs
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 dog ate holly
- Remove plant pieces from your dog's mouth and move dogs 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 dog vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm.
- 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 dog 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 dog away from holly
- Place holly on high shelves or in hanging planters out of reach of paws and tails, or in a room your dog cannot enter.
- Give your dog something better to chew: chew toys and puzzle feeders reduce boredom chewing.
- 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 dogs around the tree and table.
Pet-safe alternatives to holly
If you love flowers, these are listed as non-toxic to dogs by the ASPCA:
- Christmas CactusNon-toxic
- LiliesNon-toxic
- RosesNon-toxic
- OrchidsNon-toxic
- SunflowersNon-toxic
- Gerbera DaisiesNon-toxic
- Spider PlantsNon-toxic
- Money TreesNon-toxic
See the full list of plants safe for dogs.
Holly and dogs: FAQ
Is holly poisonous to dogs?
Holly is mildly toxic to dogs. Saponins can cause vomiting and diarrhea and drooling, but serious poisoning is uncommon.
What part of holly is toxic to dogs?
Berries and leaves.
Can dogs die from eating holly?
It is very unlikely. Holly usually causes mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your dog has trouble breathing or swallowing.
How long after eating holly will my dog show symptoms?
Usually within a few hours.
Is holly toxic to cats too?
Yes, holly is mildly toxic to cats.
Other plants toxic to dogs
- 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 Dogs
- 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 dog's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.