Worries that poinsettias are poisonous often lead parents and pet owners to avoid thefestive plantaltogether.
It’s easy to believe this idea, considering that the color red in nature often signals danger.
It turns out, however, that fears around poinsettia’s toxicity are overblown.
Credit: Marty Baldwin
We talked to an expert and reviewed the current research to set the record straight.
Dr. Lisa Murphyis an associate professor of toxicology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.
Poinsettia PoisonIs It Real?
Credit:Carson Downing
There are heaps ofdelicious things to eataround the holidays, but poinsettia leaves aren’t among them.
The plant tastes terrible.
But even if they do swallow the leaves, it’s usually nothing to worry about.
“The sap can cause some mild discomfort.”
Poinsettia Poison History
So where did this poinsettia poison tall tale come from?
Bottom line:poinsettias are not poisonous!
Dr. Murphy says an upset stomach is the general symptom of pets snacking on poinsettia leaves and stems.
“Your pet might be quieter than usual or lack appetite.
Vomiting is also possible.”
Your pet’s upset stomach is usually temporary.
“The good news is, the symptoms generally go away on their own without any special care.”
“Sometimes pets need a little help to recover,” Dr. Murphy says.
“Withhold food and water for 1 to 2 hours to give the stomach an opportunity to settle.”
After a couple of hours, offer food and water.
“Remember, you know your pet best.
Pets, like people, have individual sensitivities.
Expect pets with sensitive stomachs or underlying conditions to be a bit more sensitive.”
Wash the area with soap and water and apply a cool compress to ease itching.
If a child eats a poinsettia leaf, clear out their mouth and rinse thoroughly with water.
Some people are more sensitive to poinsettia plants than others.
“Pets, young animals especially, are just like kids,” Dr. Murphy says.
“They explore by putting things in their mouth.”
This exploration is heightenedaround the holidays when the decorand activity in homes change.
“Be mindful during the holidays when we’re all so busy.
“Enjoy your poinsettiaby setting it out of reach of curious pets and toddlers.
“Keep Your Dogs and Cats Safe From Holiday Hazards.“U.S.
Food & Drug Administration.
Parisi, Claudio A.S. et al.
“Update on Latex Allergy: New Insights Into an Old Problem.
“World Allergy Organization Journal,vol.
8, 2021, Elsevier, doi:10.1016/j.waojou.2021.100569
