As the holidays approach let’s review pet safety with plants in this Tip from the Yard.  Plants you have in your home may be safe for your pets or they may not be.  If the pet is accustomed to them toxicity this may not be an issue but new holiday plants could be different story.  Let’s check out some known toxic holiday plants and review a few of the more common year-round house plants.

Christmas Plants:

Holly:  leaves and berries are toxic to cats and dogs.  Common symptoms are blood in the mouth, excessive drooling, and digestive issues.

Christmas Cactus: are not toxic but can cause diarrhea in cats and dogs.

Poinsettias: this is the big misconception, or not.  Some articles say it is mildly toxic some articles say it is not. The confusion is based on the plants family and known issues with other plants in the family.  It would be safe to assume the sticky sap can cause diarrhea and vomiting cats and dogs. Check with your veterinarian to confirm. Continue reading Tips from the Yard: Holidays, Pets, and Toxic Plants →