This could be the kiss of death.
Mistletoe is beloved by millions of Americans during the holiday season, as lovers love each other amid the festivities and bubbly flora.
But before you decorate your halls, consider what danger the decorations pose to your pets.
“Mistletoe berries are highly toxic – they can cause heart attack and even death,” explains Dr. Carol Osborn of the Ohio-based Chagrin Falls Pet Clinic. to chew,
She says it’s paramount that plants are kept in areas out of reach of cats and dogs, claiming it “can be a matter of life and death.”
Poinsettias are another popular plant planted around homes and offices at Christmas time – but according to Dr. Osborne, this decoration is less dangerous.
“We see all these warnings about poinsettias on the Internet,” the veterinarian said. “The truth of the matter is, most plants can make animals drool or have stomach aches or a little diarrhea, but most plants are not deadly.”
Citing the low levels of toxicity in the plant, she says their dangers have been “exaggerated.”
However, this has not stopped it American Kennel Club It says the celebratory flowers pose a danger to dogs if they ingest the plant’s white sap, which “contains chemicals similar to household detergent.”
If the juice is consumed in large quantities, it may result in vomiting, salivation, diarrhea, and skin irritation.
Meanwhile, Christmas cacti, Christmas roses and even Christmas trees can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets.
Experts told Chewy that lilies are also extremely toxic to pets and any exposure can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, lethargy, loss of appetite or changes in urination and require medical attention .
“It is important to note that all parts of most types of lilies are very poisonous to cats. “Lilies should never be in homes with cats,” Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinary officer for the American Kennel Club, said in a blog post, noting that the flowers are often overlooked in flower arrangements.
She adds, “Amaryllis, balsam, pine, cedar and holly are among the common holiday plants that can be dangerous and, in some cases, even poisonous to pets who eat them.”
If pet owners suspect that their fur baby has been exposed to a potentially poisonous plant, it is important to seek veterinary attention. Dr. Osborn recommends taking a photo of the plant to show the doctor.
“If you think your pet has eaten a poisonous plant, don’t wait!” Dr. Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of the San Diego Humane Society, told Chewy. “Plan to go to your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately. Call ahead because your veterinarian may ask you to make your pet vomit.”
