A vet has explained why wreaths can be dangerous to pets (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
As Christmas draws near, UK vets are warning pet owners to be wary of certain that could pose serious dangers to their pets.
Although they look pretty, there could be hidden dangers you were unaware of to as well as and other animals from these plants.
With 57% of Brits owning a pet, Angela Laws, Head of Community at TrustedHousesitters, the leading pet-sitting platform, has joined forces with qualified vet Lizzie Youens BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS to spotlight the festive flowers that can cause severe health problems if eaten by our pets.
While these favourites may enhance your home’s festive appeal, they could also result in unexpected and expensive visits to the emergency vet or worse.
So make sure to check out the advice to keep your beloved pets safe this festive season
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Poinsettia can be harmful to pets when eaten (Image: Getty Images)
1. Poinsettias
Famous for their bright red leaves, poinsettias are a Christmas staple. However, they can be extremely harmful to our pets if eaten.
It’s not just eating it that’s a worry, skin or eye contact with the plant’s sap might lead to redness, swelling, or itching, so keep it at a safe distance, out of reach, if you have it in the house this season.
Lizzie explains: “The milky-white sap that the plant produces contains chemicals that can cause an irritant reaction in both humans and our fluffy friends. While it’s unlikely that a small amount of this will poison your pup, ingesting large amounts can lead to vomiting, drooling, and lethargy.”
Many people on have spread the message about poinsettias being harmful to animals too, with creator @iamleoroo sharing a video to warn his followers.
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2. Holly
Holly, a symbol of festive cheer used in wreaths and decorations, could spell trouble for pets. The bright berries are loaded with harmful toxins like saponins, methylxanthines, and cyanogens that can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive drooling, and abdominal pain all possibly culminating in an urgent visit to the vets.
Not only that, but the plant’s spikey foliage can also cause mouth or throat injuries if ingested by your furry friend.
Pet care expert Lizzie has this advice: “Keep a close eye on your pet and ensure they stay hydrated, especially if they’re losing fluids due to vomiting or diarrhoea. Severe cases may require a vet visit for tests and potentially intravenous fluids.”
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3. Mistletoe
Mistletoe, another holiday favourite known for its kiss-inducing lore, poses a less severe but still significant threat to pets. Its berries and leaves carry toxins that could cause breathing issues if eaten.
To prevent mishaps, Angela suggests hanging mistletoe out of paws’ reach, maintaining its traditional, kiss-inspiring spot above doorways.
Moreover, handcrafted wreaths carry their own set of risks, with their loose fragments of plants, holly, or berries often falling to the ground and attracting inquisitive pets who might fancy a nibble.
Angela advises: “Handmade wreaths are a lovely way to personalise your Christmas decor, but artificial or professionally made wreaths are a safer choice for pet owners. If you do make your own wreath, check its placement and condition regularly to prevent any plant toxic debris from reaching your pets.”
Mistletoe’s berries and leaves carry toxins that could cause breathing issues if eaten (Image: Getty Images)
4. Wreaths
Hand crafted wreaths are particularly risky for pets as koose plant fragments, such as leaves, holly, or berries, can easily fall to the floor, tempting curious pets to investigate.
Angela explains: Handmade wreaths are a lovely way to personalise your Christmas décor, but artificial or professionally made wreaths are a safer choice for pet owners. If you do make your own wreath, check its placement and condition regularly to prevent any plant toxic debris from reaching your pets.”
5. Amaryllis
Amaryllis plants, with their striking red and white flowers, are a popular festive decoration and gift. However, both the bulb and the flowers of the amaryllis plant 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.
Angela Laws, Head of Community at TrustedHousesitters, adds:
“While Christmas is a time for joy and celebration, it’s important to remain vigilant about the risks certain decorations and plants can pose to our pets.
“A little awareness goes a long way in ensuring your furry companions stay healthy throughout the festive season, so owner and pet alike can enjoy themselves safely.Remember – when it comes to your pet, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So, don’t delay in contacting your vet in the first instance of any concerns and follow their advice.”