Plants · Ilex opaca
Is Holly Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Cats
Vomiting, diarrhea and depression (ASPCA).
Dogs
Vomiting, diarrhea and depression (ASPCA).
Yes, holly is toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA lists saponins as the toxic compounds, causing vomiting, diarrhea and depression. Keep holiday holly and its berries out of reach, and call your vet if your pet ate some and shows signs.
Written by VetExpenses Editorial TeamFact-checked against cited sources · Veterinary review pendingLast reviewed
Educational information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or ate something worrying, call your veterinarian or a pet poison line now. Emergency steps.
Holly: plant facts
| Scientific name | Ilex opaca |
|---|---|
| Family | Aquifoliaceae |
| Other names | American holly, English holly, European holly, Winterberry, Inkberry |
| Toxic parts | Leaves and berries |
| Toxic principle | Saponins |
| Where you'll find it | outdoor, holiday |
Severity scale: “usually mild” means the ASPCA lists only mouth, stomach or skin irritation; “highly toxic” means it lists organ failure, heart effects, seizures or death.
Signs to watch for
Cats
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- depression
Dogs
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- depression
My pet ate holly. What do I do?
- Take any remaining plant away from your pet and note which plant (photo or label) and how much was chewed.
- Call your veterinarian or a pet poison line: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435, Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661. A fee may apply.
- Don't make your pet vomit unless a veterinarian or poison control tells you to.
What it could cost
If your pet needs care after eating holly
We publish a price range only after it is checked against named sources — our vet visit and poisoning treatment guide is in verification. A vet bill for this kind of visit is usually built from these line items:
- Exam or emergency consultation fee
- Tests: bloodwork, urine tests or imaging
- Treatment, such as decontamination or medication
- Hospital stay and monitoring, if needed
- Follow-up visits and recheck tests
Pet-safe alternatives
Related plants
Sources
- American Holly — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Accessed November 8, 2026.
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