Plants · Euphorbia pulcherrima
Is Poinsettia Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Cats
Mouth and stomach irritation, sometimes vomiting (ASPCA).
Dogs
Mouth and stomach irritation, sometimes vomiting (ASPCA).
Poinsettias are mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Their irritant sap can upset the mouth and stomach and sometimes cause vomiting, but the ASPCA says they are generally over-rated in toxicity. Keep them out of reach and call your vet if your pet keeps vomiting.
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.
Poinsettia: plant facts
| Scientific name | Euphorbia pulcherrima |
|---|---|
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Toxic parts | Sap in leaves and stems |
| Toxic principle | Irritant sap |
| Where you'll find it | indoor, 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
- mouth irritation
- stomach irritation
- vomiting
Dogs
- mouth irritation
- stomach irritation
- vomiting
My pet ate poinsettia. 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 poinsettia
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
Frequently asked questions
Are poinsettias deadly to cats?
The ASPCA describes poinsettias as irritating to the mouth and stomach and generally over-rated in toxicity.
Sources
- Poinsettia — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Accessed November 8, 2026.
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