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Poinsettia
Euphorbia pulcherrima
Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is a common holiday plant with bright red, pink, or white bracts. It has a scary reputation, but for cats it is usually a mild irritant rather than a severe poison. The main issue is the milky latex sap inside the leaves and stems. This sap contains irritating compounds, including diterpenoid euphorbol esters, that can bother the mouth, stomach, skin, or eyes. Most cats do not eat much because the plant tastes unpleasant, so serious poisoning is uncommon. If a cat chews poinsettia, possible signs include drooling, mouth discomfort, vomiting, diarrhea, lower appetite, or low energy. Sap on the skin or in the eyes can cause redness or irritation. Keep poinsettias out of reach, wipe away fallen leaves, and contact a veterinarian if your cat eats a large amount, keeps vomiting, or has eye irritation.
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.