Are Poinsettias Poisonous to Cats?
Introduction:
Every year at most if not all grocery stores during the holidays, poinsettias are a staple. This means that they are a staple in most homes during the holiday season. Do you get one every year like so many other families? If so, how will this affect your furry friends? How toxic are poinsettias to cats? Keep reading below to find out?
Are poinsettias toxic to cats?
As most of you may know, poinsettias are poisonous to cats. What you may not know is that poinsettias are only mildly toxic to cats. This means poinsettias are not deadly to cats and will only cause mild illness if ingested. So don’t freak out if you see your cat chewing on the leaves or flowers of a poinsettia, just know your cat will have some of the symptoms in the section below.
What are the signs your cat was poisoned by a poinsettia?
Poinsettias have the reputation of being deadly to cats but as stated above, it is not true. If your cat ingests the leaves or flowers of the poinsettia they could have several of the following reactions: drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy or loss of appetite. A milky white sap contained in the poinsettia plant can cause skin or eye irritation if the sap comes into contact with your cats skin or eye. Conjunctivitis is a very rare symptom if the sap gets into your cats eye.
How to treat a cat with poinsettia poisoning?
Because of the mild nature of poinsettia poisoning, no treatment is required. Only in rare cases is veterinary assistance required. With mild symptoms and quick improvement, you can take care of your cats at home.
Conclusion
Poinsettias are a big part of the holidays for many families and pet owners are no exception. During this time, make sure to keep an eye out for your cats health by keeping them away from your poinsettias. They may not be lethal or particularly dangerous but taking care of a sick cat on top of holiday preparations could really put a damper on things. Mildly sick cats means a lot of cleanup for you.
It will save you a lot of time and more importantly save your cat from unnecessary pain if you can keep your cat away from your poinsettia. Stay tuned for more holiday plants to keep away or not keep away from your cat.