Poinsettias and Cats: A Safe Combination

Feline lovers sharing their hearts and homes with kitties can now rest assured that poinsettias included in holiday decor are no longer considered toxic to cats. While I had heard rumors to that effect, it was a relief to actually have this information validated on the Cat Hospital of Orlando's Facebook page. Located in Altamonte Springs, in close proximity to Orlando, Florida, this feline-only veterinary practice offers the state-of-the-art veterinary care for cats, provided by highly knowledgeable, compassionate staff. After extensive scientific testing of both the leaves and sap of the poinsettia plant, researchers from the Ohio State University found that the poinsettia is not toxic to either pets or children. The National Information Center for Poison Control Centers, (POISINDEX) reported that "A child would have to ingest 500-600 leaves in order to exceed the experimental doses that found no toxicity." Both The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, (ASPCA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association are both on the same page in regard to the once-dreaded poinsettia plant . They simply suggest that using common sense in placing poinsettias around the house -- out of harm's way and in a location where pets are not conveniently tempted to chew on them -- will prevent any potential belly aches which ingesting may cause. It is indeed a tremendous relief to know that pet owners no longer have to avoid displaying these magnificent plants in their homes over the holiday season for fear that it will be fatal to their pets. However, while poinsettias are not toxic to pets, the Christmas mistletoe and holly berries are considered toxic to dogs and cats if large numbers of the berries are ingested. The symptoms of mistletoe poisoning range from hyper-salivating, diarrhea, vomiting and increased urination with increased respiratory and heart rates. Animals who eat a small quantity of mistletoe berries may only suffer digestive upset, but those pets who have consumed a large quantity of these berries and do not receive immediate treatment can go into shock and can even die. Symptoms of holly berry poisoning range from gastric upset, vomiting and diarrhea with resultant dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. So steer clear of holiday berries and check out this complete list of plants toxic to dogs and cats, especially during the holiday season, visit VetMedicine. What precautions are you taking to keep your pets safe over the holidays? Share them in a comment. Image Source: Flickr user mr_tentacle