What are the symptoms if a cat eats Poinsettia?

Oral irritation, excessive drooling (hypersalivation), and discomfort of the mouth and esophagus, Vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea, Anorexia (loss of appetite), Depression or lethargy, Cardiovascular issues

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✕ Toxic

Poinsettia

Q: Is Poinsettia toxic to cats?

Warning: Toxic. Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is a popular holiday plant known for its bright red, pink, or white leaves. While it has a reputation for being highly toxic, it is actually a mild irritant for cats rather than a deadly poison. The hazard comes from the thick, milky sap found inside the plant's leaves and stems. When a cat bites the plant, this sap can irritate the mouth, throat, and stomach. The sap can also bother the skin or eyes if a leaf breaks and touches the cat. Because the sap tastes very bad, cats rarely eat enough to cause a serious problem. A cat that chews on a poinsettia may drool, feel nauseous, vomit, or have diarrhea. They might also lose their appetite or seem a bit tired. If the sap gets into their eyes or on their skin, it can cause redness and irritation. Keep these plants away from pets, clean up any fallen leaves, and contact a veterinarian if your cat eats a large amount, cannot stop vomiting, or shows signs of eye pain.

Euphorbia pulcherrima

Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is a popular holiday plant known for its bright red, pink, or white leaves. While it has a reputation for being highly toxic, it is actually a mild irritant for cats rather than a deadly poison. The hazard comes from the thick, milky sap found inside the plant's leaves and stems. When a cat bites the plant, this sap can irritate the mouth, throat, and stomach. The sap can also bother the skin or eyes if a leaf breaks and touches the cat. Because the sap tastes very bad, cats rarely eat enough to cause a serious problem. A cat that chews on a poinsettia may drool, feel nauseous, vomit, or have diarrhea. They might also lose their appetite or seem a bit tired. If the sap gets into their eyes or on their skin, it can cause redness and irritation. Keep these plants away from pets, clean up any fallen leaves, and contact a veterinarian if your cat eats a large amount, cannot stop vomiting, or shows signs of eye pain.

Important Notes

Main hazard: The milky latex sap in leaves and stems can irritate the mouth, stomach, skin, and eyes.

Symptoms: Drooling, mouth discomfort, vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite, or low energy; skin or eye contact may cause redness.

Risk level: Poinsettia is usually mildly irritating, not one of the highly dangerous holiday plants for cats.

Action: Keep the plant out of reach and call a vet if vomiting continues, eye irritation appears, or your cat ate a large amount.

Potentially Toxic Parts

Sap

Leaf

Entire Plant

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Cardiovascular issues

Cardiac

Vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea

Gastrointestinal

Oral irritation, excessive drooling (hypersalivation), and discomfort of the mouth and esophagus

Gastrointestinal

Anorexia (loss of appetite)

Gastrointestinal

Depression or lethargy

Gastrointestinal

Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.