Carol DM
During the holidays, poinsettias are a popular Christmas plant. Though they have a bad rap, poinsettia plants are only mildly toxic to cats and dogs. The milky white sap found in poinsettias contains chemicals called diterpenoid euphorbol esters and saponin-like detergents. While poinsettias are commonly “hyped” as poisonous plants, they rarely are, and the poisoning is greatly exaggerated.
When ingested, mild signs of vomiting, drooling, or rarely, diarrhea may be seen. If the milky sap is exposed to skin, dermal irritation (including redness, swelling, and itchiness) may develop. Rarely, eye exposure can result in mild irritation. Signs are generally self-limiting and typically don’t require medical treatment unless severe and persistent. There is no antidote for poinsettia poisoning. That said, due to the low level of toxicity seen with poinsettia ingestion, medical treatment is rarely necessary unless clinical signs are severe.
I snapped this photo at Lowe’s while out running errands yesterday.
Photo ©CarolDM2018
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Did you know this plant could be poisonous for your animals?
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Yes
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No
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I know that information as well as “Sambang-darah” (Excoecaria cochinchinensis) that I have posted long before, but people like it.
We call this flower a Christmas star and almost everyone has to have it in your own home
I used to gift this to people who has everything. argh!
Until I research it, I assume all plants are poison as far as my pets are concerned. Thanks for the information.
Well maybe not all of them but it is good to do your research. You are welcome. Have a good evening.
Thanks for this information! I did not know it was toxic to pets!
This is a biggie in the US because we give these to others a lot during the holidays.
I will be very careful about which flowers I will have in the apartment
That is the reason for the post. Glad to help out.
This time of year there are many things to worry about for pets. Thanks for bringing another up Carol!
You are right Doc and many people forget. You are welcome.
THanks again!! ALways important to remember our furry friends this time of year!
Absolutely! 🙂 Have a great day.
Well done! Nice post!
I know this for a fact. My late husband had one plant like this in his house He heard it did not harm cats. Days later the one cat vomited. Soon afterwards died. It could have been from something else, but I think it was from the plant. The other cats did not get sick at all. I will never have one in my house since that happened. Great post for this time of year.
Yes I have also heard this happening sadly.
What!? That is just so shocking and sad!!
Guess its best not to have plants in the house if you’ve pets … too risky
Yes it is so important to know what plants are poisonous to your animals!