Poinsettias & Pets: What You Really Need to Know This Holiday Season
At Gillespie Florists, we love poinsettias—those bold, festive blooms are a Christmas classic for a reason! But every year, we hear the same question: “Are poinsettias dangerous for my pets?”
Great news: poinsettias have earned a reputation they absolutely don’t deserve.
The Real Scoop: Are Poinsettias Poisonous?
Poinsettias are only mildly toxic to cats and dogs—and not nearly as dangerous as the myths claim. According to current veterinary sources, a pet would have to consume a very large amount of plant material to experience anything more than mild discomfort. (Think: gnawing through multiple plants—not a casual nibble.)
So why the concern?
Poinsettias contain a milky white sap that can cause:
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Mild stomach upset (vomiting, drooling, occasionally diarrhea)
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Skin irritation if the sap touches the skin (redness, itchiness)
That’s it. No organ damage, no long-term risk, and they are not toxic to humans at all.
If your pet does happen to snack on the plant, symptoms—if they appear—are usually minor and pass quickly. Still concerned? You can always call your vet for guidance, but poinsettias are far from the holiday hazard they’re rumored to be.
So go ahead—bring one home and enjoy that beautiful color all winter long!
Plants That Are a Concern for Pets
While poinsettias get too much blame, there are some holiday favorites you’ll want to be mindful of:
❗ Lilies
Extremely dangerous to cats. Even a tiny bite—or pollen exposure—can cause acute kidney failure. We never include true lilies in pet-friendly arrangements.
❗ Holly
Holly leaves and berries can cause significant stomach upset. The spiny leaves often cause lip-smacking, drooling, or pawing at the face.
❗ Mistletoe
American mistletoe is less toxic than European varieties, but ingestion can still lead to mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Keep an eye out for dried leaves or berries that may fall to the floor.
We’re Here to Help Keep Your Pets Safe
When placing an order, just let our sales team know if there are pets in the home. Our designers will happily tailor your bouquet with safe selections—and for those beautiful holly accents we all adore, we keep silk holly on hand just for pet-friendly designs!
Explore Our Holiday Plants
Ready to brighten your home or gift someone special?
Check out our gorgeous poinsettias and seasonal favorites below!
Poinsettias: The Classic Elegance: Poinsettias are the most popular plants of the Christmas season. Their vibrant red, green, and white hues instantly evoke the spirit of the season. Considered a symbol of prosperity and good cheer, poinsettias make for a timeless and thoughtful gift. With various sizes and color options available, you can choose the perfect poinsettia to brighten someone's holiday and home.
Christmas Cactus: A Delicate Surprise: For a unique and unexpected gift, look no further than the Christmas cactus. With its trailing branches and delicate blooms, this plant brings a touch of elegance to any space. The Christmas cactus is not only beautiful to look at, but it's also easy to care for, making it an ideal gift for both seasoned gardeners and those new to the world of plants. 
Centerpieces: A Table Set for Joy: Elevate your holiday table with the gift of a festive centerpiece. A centerpiece can add a touch of warmth and charm to any Christmas gathering. Consider gifting a beautifully crafted centerpiece to friends or family, bringing the joy of the season right to their dining table.
Wreaths: Welcoming the Season with Style: Wreaths are not just for the front door—they make exquisite gifts that symbolize the circle of giving and love. A wreath is a versatile and thoughtful present to help your loved ones adorn their homes with the spirit of the holidays.
