Is poinsettia toxic to dogs or cats?
Its deadly reputation is a myth: expect mild drooling at worst.
Mildly irritating sap, nothing more in typical nibbles.
The poinsettia's killer reputation comes from a 1919 legend, not evidence: its milky sap is a mild irritant and typical exposure means a little drooling or vomiting. It still is not salad, and heavy ingestion warrants a call. But you do not need to cancel the holidays over it.
Signs to watch for
- Drooling
- Mild vomiting
- Skin irritation from sap
Sources: ASPCA toxic and non-toxic plant list, Pet Poison Helpline. Verdicts are conservative by design: where evidence is thin we choose the stricter rating.
This is general educational information, not veterinary advice. When in doubt about your own pet, ask your veterinarian.
If your pet just ate something risky, act now: call your vet, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (consultation fees may apply).