From garlands on the mantle to poinsettias by the door, holiday plants add beauty and cheer to our homes, but some of them can be surprisingly dangerous to pets. Our team at Cloverleaf Animal Clinic has treated pets around the holidays who’ve had a toxic nibble of something festive. If you’re decorating your home for guests or receiving a seasonal arrangement, knowing which plants are pet-safe can be a huge help in keeping your animal companion out of the vet this season.

Toxic Plants, December Holidays, and Your Pet

Dogs and cats are naturally curious, and plants with bright leaves, berries, or dangling tendrils can look like tempting toys or snacks. Even a small bite of certain plants can lead to serious symptoms, from mild stomach upset to more severe reactions like kidney failure or heart issues. So which plants should you be on the lookout for? We have listed a few of the most common around this season, but for a specific plant lookup, we recommend this plant lookup tool from the ASPCA.

Poinsettias

Bright red and festive, poinsettias are a staple in many Memphis homes during the holidays.

• Toxicity level: Mild
• What happens: Can cause drooling, nausea, or vomiting if chewed and/or swallowed.
• Tip: While not highly toxic, it’s best to place them well out of reach

Mistletoe

Often hung in doorways or used in wreaths, mistletoe is significantly more dangerous to pets.

• Toxicity level: High
• What happens: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, slowed heart rate, and difficulty breathing
• Tip: Avoid using real mistletoe if you have pets

Holly

Spiky leaves and red berries make holly a popular decorating choice, but one that’s not always pet-friendly.

• Toxicity level: Mild
• What happens: Drooling, vomiting, digestive upset, and depression; the leaves can physically irritate the mouth and GI tract
• Tip: Consider artificial holly for a safer alternative

Lilies

Lilies can be included in seasonal floral arrangements, and they’re extremely dangerous for cats.

• Toxicity level: Very High (cats)
• What happens: Even the smallest exposure can cause kidney failure
• Tip: Do not bring lilies into your home if you have cats

Christmas Trees

While not toxic in the traditional sense, live and artificial trees pose risks to pets.

• Needles: If swallowed, can cause stomach or internal blockages.
• Tree water: May contain bacteria or fertilizers
• Tip: Cover the tree base, clean up needles frequently, and avoid adding anything to the tree water

My Pet Swallowed a Toxic Plant

If your pet has swallowed parts of a toxic plant, quickly remove any remaining plant material from their mouth and separate them from the rest of the plant. Contact a vet for urgent care services right away. Do not try to make a cat or dog vomit unless specifically told to do so by a veterinary professional.

You can also try calling an animal poison hotline, like the Pet Poison Helpline, to be connected with an expert. There is a fee for their services, but they will let you know whether you can assist your pet at home or if your pet should be seen at an emergency vet right away. This can be especially helpful during holidays when veterinary hospitals may be closed or have reduced hours.

Veterinary Treatment for Poisoned Pets in Memphis, TN

Cloverleaf Animal Clinic wants your holidays to be joyful, peaceful, and free of pet emergencies. With a little plant awareness and some creative decorating, you can enjoy all the sparkle of the season without putting your pet at risk. Cloverleaf Animal Clinic has veterinary urgent care for pets during business hours, including cats and dogs from Bartlett, Memphis, Germantown, and neighboring Tennessee communities. Call us right away if you are concerned about your pet.