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Poinsettia

Pet toxin reference — educational information only.
Pet toxins

What to know

Poinsettia — toxicity in dogs and cats

Monitor at homeApplies to: dogs and cats.

Overview

Poinsettia is commonly feared, but in most pets it causes only mild mouth and stomach irritation. The milky sap can produce drooling or transient vomiting when chewed. Severe toxicity is uncommon, and most exposures are self-limiting. Rinsing the mouth and monitoring for persistent signs is usually sufficient.

Symptoms

Drooling, mild vomiting, mouth irritation

Typical onset

Immediate to 4 hours

What to do

Monitor at home for mild exposure.

This page is educational and does not replace veterinary advice. If your pet may have been exposed, call UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.

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Poinsettia is commonly feared, but in most pets it causes only mild mouth and stomach irritation. The milky sap can produce drooling or transient vomiting when chewed. Severe toxicity is uncommon, and most exposures are self-limiting. Rinsing the mouth and monitoring for persistent signs is usually sufficient.

Symptoms
Drooling, mild vomiting, mouth irritation
Onset
Immediate to 4 hours
Recommended next step
Monitor at home for mild exposure.
This tool is informational only and does not replace veterinary advice. If ingestion may have happened, contact UVEC at (801) 218-2227 or ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.