If for Christmas you’re invited for dinner by friends and relatives that have dogs, cats, rabbits or other freely roaming animals, avoid giving them a Poinsettia: the Poinsettia is indeed toxic for cats and dogs.

Given how it’s already difficult to find a vet on shift during the holiday and that you will then have to pay for the emergency, it’s best to avoid, if possible.

The Poinsettia is part of the Euphorbiaceae family: its leaves, stems and lymph are toxic. The lymph contains a milk which is highly irritating for mucous membranes and that can lead to intoxication if ingested in significant amounts.

Obviously this toxicity is not limited only to cats and dogs but also for our rabbits, rodents and other small mammals which, as it is known, are very fond of plats and flowers.

Symptoms of a possible contact include:

 

Irritation of the mucous membrane of the digestive tract.

Swelling and pain on the lips, mouth and tongue.

Irritation of the eyes (more serious)

Conjuctivitis and tearing.

Dermatitis

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Noticeable tremors

 

If you see one of this symptoms and you have a Poinsettia in your home, get immediately in touch with your vet. Timing is essential.

The Mistletoe (scientific name: Viscum Album) is even worse: Ingestion can cause ataxia (lack of coordination), excessive salivation, midriasys (dilated pupils), vomit, diarrhea, poliuria, abdominal pain. If there’s no early intervention there is a risk of death. Hence, if you suspect your pet has ingested mistletoe, it’s important to get immediately in touch with a vet.

That said, we wish you a wonderful Christmas to spend with your pets (except the ones I’m taking care of, they’re covered, don’t worry ;)) from all of us lots of meow and all the best wishes!