Keep these away from your children and pets
Decorating for Christmas brings joy and warmth to the home, and greenery is at the heart of that tradition. From garlands to fragrant wreaths, winter foliage helps set a festive scene. But while real greenery is beloved, some households opt for faux alternatives, especially where safety is a concern.
Much like certain houseplants, some festive plants can pose risks to pets and people. We asked veterinarian Lizzie Youens from from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) to offer vital advice on the common festive plants that are toxic to pets. You don't have to forgo poinsettias or mistletoe entirely, but it's important to be cautious, especially with curious pets in the home. Read on to learn about the greenery you should handle with care this festive season.
Holly bushes are bright and festive, but the berries and leaves are a danger to both pets and humans. If ingested, the leaves can cut and scratch at your mouth, throat, and intestines, while the berries can make you quite sick. For pets, Lizzie advises keeping them well-hydrated while the plant passes through their system to avoid a vet visit.
The amaryllis is a bold flower, commonly gifted and used as centrepieces during the holidays, but Lizzie warns of adverse effects when eaten by pets. 'Both the bulb and the flowers of the amaryllis plant contain toxins, including lycorine and other alkaloids, which are highly toxic to pets,' she explains. 'Symptoms of ingestion can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount consumed. Common signs include vomiting, drooling, abdominal pain, and tremors. In more severe cases, pets may experience lethargy, a drop in blood pressure, and even seizures.'
Even just a small nibble of this plant can cause severe sickness, muscle weakness, and even sudden heart failure in pets. The berries may look tempting, but keep your beloved animals away from yew trees, whether they're outdoors, in pots, or used in floral arrangements for your Christmas table. This plant is equally dangerous to humans.
A well-known Christmas plant, poinsettia is definitely not pet-friendly; nearly all parts of the plant are poisonous to animals. 'The milky-white sap that the plant produces contains chemicals that can cause an irritant reaction in both humans and our fluffy friends. While it’s unlikely that a small amount of this will poison your pup, ingesting large amounts can lead to vomiting, drooling, and lethargy,' explains Lizzie.
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