Holiday Plants Toxic to Pets: What You Need to Know
Among the other items known to cause problems for pets, holiday plants can be terribly toxic. Whether your pet is simply curious, or has a fondness for chewing up greenery, there are certain holiday plants to be avoided at all costs.
Spreading Cheer
Many of us bring plants, flowers, and boughs inside the home as a way to enjoy nature’s splendor, especially during the greyest days of winter. Little pops of green leaves, bold colors, and strong fragrances can lift our spirits and help us celebrate the holidays.
The best strategy for winter pet safety is simply not to bring certain plants inside the home. However, if you cannot resist them, only display them indoors if your pet cannot reach them and/or is only allowed in certain rooms under direct supervision.
Celebrating Defensively
Knowing that pets are at high risk of accidental injury or illness during the holidays is half the battle. Being able to recognize threats is important, but it’s equally critical to be able to identify the symptoms of accidental ingestion of a poisonous or toxic substance.
If you know or suspect that your pet ate a toxic plant, please call us right away or consult the pet poison helpline for guidance. Depending on the plant and how much a pet consumes, if you ever see vomiting/diarrhea, mobility issues, seizures, breathing problems, and trouble with alertness, please seek emergency veterinary help.
Toxic Holiday Plants for Pets
The Christmas tree is one of the most obvious threats to holiday pet safety, but can be less risky with the following protocol:
- Keep the tree stand covered so your pet cannot drink the water (potential for contamination with pesticides, fire retardant, and fertilizer).
- Clean up any fallen needles every day.
- Anchor the tree to the wall or attach it to the ceiling so it cannot tip over.
Evergreen garlands that wrap railings and doorways should be given the same scrutiny. Be sure they are carefully attached to reduce dropping on the floor and potentially exposing a pet to toxic stems and needles.
Other Holiday Plants
Try to avoid the following plants in your seasonal decorations:
- Holly leaves and berries
- Mistletoe
- Amaryllis
- Snowdrops
- Poinsettias
- Yew
Any changes to your pet’s behavior or appearance should warrant a close inspection of their environment. Quick action can yield a better prognosis and positive outcome. Some symptoms may only last temporarily but it’s always worth it to be safe rather than sorry, especially during the holiday season.
If we can assist you in supporting your pet’s health, safety, and comfort this holiday season, please give us a call at (865) 609‑0311. From all of us at Volunteer Veterinary Hospital, have a safe and happy holiday!