Poinsettias are one of the most popular flowers for people who are interested in gardening. Poinsettias are distinguished by their popularity during the holiday season and carry a reputation for being quite poisonous. Will dogs eat poinsettias? Spot Pet Insurance is dedicated to helping pet parents navigate these potential hazards for their dogs. Continue reading below to learn more.
What Happens If My Dog Eats a Poinsettia?
It is not completely unreasonable to assume that many dogs will find poinsettias attractive thanks to their color. Many curious dogs will begin nibbling on the poinsettias while others will avoid them altogether because of their bitter smell.
Are Poinsettias Poisonous to Dogs?
Poinsettias are mildly poisonous to dogs, but not exactly deadly. Dogs can expect to deal with minor symptoms if they accidentally ingest poinsettias. Some of these symptoms include:
Drooling
Irritation
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Skin irritation thanks to contact with poinsettia sap.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats a Poinsettia
If you find that your dog has inadvertently ingested a poinsettia, there are some steps that you can take. These are listed here:
Remove access to the plant
Rinse your dog’s mouth with water if it is irritated
Monitor your dog for complications
If you notice your dog’s condition worsening, you need to make sure that you contact a veterinarian
Are Christmas Plants Safe for Dogs?
No, not all Christmas plants are safe for dogs. Many, like poinsettias, are known to be minorly poisonous to dogs. Some of the Christmas plants that are known to be poisonous to dogs include mistletoes, hollies, Christmas trees, and ivy.
Are Christmas Lillies Poisonous to Dogs?
Yes, Christmas lilies (and other types of lilies) are considered poisonous to dogs, though they are more dangerous to cats. If a dog ingests any part of a Christmas lily—leaves, flowers, or even the water from a vase—it can cause symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. In some cases, ingestion may lead to more severe reactions like lethargy or loss of appetite. While Christmas lilies are not as toxic to dogs as they are to cats, it’s still important to keep these plants out of reach. If you suspect your dog has consumed a lily, contact your veterinarian promptly for advice and monitoring.
More About Spot Pet Insurance
Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more.
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With 10 years of experience as a pet parent, I aim to empower pet owners with insights into pet insurance and maintaining their pet's well-being. I aspire to be a trusted source, combining knowledge with a commitment to the welfare of our beloved pets.
With 15 years as a dog and cat parent, my pet articles are a mix of humor and firsthand experience - proof that the best stories often come with paws and purrs.
