Holiday Plants Toxic to Pets

The Holidays are here and with them come decorative plants to cheer up our homes. One major problem with these types of plants, some are toxic to our beloved pets. We love our pets like they are family because they are a part of the family. So we need to be aware of what plants can be used during the Holidays and what plants cannot. This article will talk about the plants that should not be near our pets this Holiday season.

Poinsettia Plant

Many people think that this plant is poisonous to pets and although this is somewhat true, it will only cause mild diarrhea and vomiting in pets. It is the leaves of this plant that can cause our pet to become sick but it will not kill them and according to snopes.com, the Poinsettia plant being fatal to our pets is an urban legend dating back to the year 1919. It is, however, better to be safe that sorry when it comes to this plant and keep it away from out pets just in case. Besides, we really don't want the poor things to end up getting sick anyway.

Mistletoe and Holly

Mistletoe and Holly are very popular during the Holiday season to decorate the house with. However, these types of plants are moderately to severely toxic to our pets and if they accidentally ingest them, you should call your vet or the Animal Poison Control Center immediately.

Lilies and Daffodils

These types of flowering plants are popular gifts for this time of year. These plants are toxic to pets and can cause severe symptoms of gastrointestinal problems, cardiac arrhythmias, tremors and convulsions in our precious pets.

Christmas Tree

Christmas trees are considered to be mildly toxic to pets. The fir tree oils can be irritating to the stomach and mouth causing drooling and vomiting. The needles of the Christmas tree are not easily digestible and can cause GI irritation, vomiting and gastrointestinal puncture or obstruction. The amount of problems, however depend on the amount ingested. Pets don't usually consume too much of the Christmas tree. Try to keep your pet out of the room where you have your Christmas tree this year just to be on the safe side.

Make sure to keep these toxic Holiday plants away from pets. If you are unsure of the plants toxicity to your pet, look it up to check it's toxicity. And as always, call a vet or the Animal Poison Control Center if you suspect your pet has been poisoned.

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Holiday Plants Toxic to Pets