Photo courtesy TrustedHousesitters The holiday season can be a busy time for veterinary practices, with last-minute routine appointments requested by clients before they head for vacation. Sometimes, emergency cases can fill your schedule, too. Pet-sitting platform TrustedHousesitters has teamed up with Lizzie Youens, BSc (Hons), BVSc, MRCVS to highlight the health risks some festive blooms have if ingested by pets. Check out five seasonal plants to warn pet parents about: 1) Poinsettias These Christmas classics can be very harmful to our pets if consumed. While ingesting it is not the main concern, skin or eye contact with the plant’s sap can cause redness, swelling, or itching. TrustedHouseSitters recommends to keep these vibrant plants at a safe distance or out of reach. “The milky-white sap that the plant produces contains chemicals that can cause an irritant reaction in both humans and our fluffy friends,” says Dr. Youens. “While it’s unlikely that a small amount of this will poison your pup, ingesting large amounts can lead to vomiting, drooling, and lethargy.” 2) Holly Holly is a commonly used for wreaths, garlands, and mantlepiece arrangements, but it is reportedly harmful for pets. The berries contain toxins, including saponins, methylxanthines, and cyanogens, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and abdominal pain. Further, its sharp, spiky leaves can cause injuries in the mouth or throat. Youens advises to “keep a close eye on your pet and ensure they stay hydrated, especially if they’re losing fluids due to vomiting or diarrhea. Severe cases may require a vet visit for tests and potentially intravenous fluids.” 3) Mistletoe Youens recommends placing this holiday staple out of reach of your pets. While it is reportedly less toxic, its berries and leaves contain substances that can cause difficulty in breathing if ingested. 4) Wreaths Handcrafted wreaths can be particularly risky for pets. Loose plant fragments, such as leaves, holly, or berries, can easily fall to the floor, tempting curious pets to investigate. “Handmade wreaths are a lovely way to personalize your Christmas décor, but artificial or professionally made wreaths are a safer choice for pet owners,” says Youens. “If you do make your own wreath, check its placement and condition regularly to prevent any toxic plant debris from reaching your pets.” 5) Amaryllis Both the bulb and the flowers of amaryllis contain toxins, including lycorine and other alkaloids, which are highly toxic to pets. 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. Help educate clients about these holiday hazards. Consider giving handouts during routine appointments or placing posters in your clinic and help keep pets safe these holiday season. For more information on poisonous plants, visit the TrustedHousesitters website.
