Foliage, greenery, and sparkle, something we all look forward to around the holiday season. Besides keeping your curious feline out of the Christmas tree, there are some other plants you might want to keep a look out for.

Christmas trees –

- It’s that time of year again where the air is chilled, the ground is covered in snow, the fireplace is warm, and we finally get the urge to put up the Christmas tree.
- When picking out a Christmas tree, there are a few things to consider:
  - Be careful with pine Christmas trees and their sharp needles. If consumed, they can cause irritation to the intestinal tract, which could result in vomiting and diarrhea or possibly neurologic signs if large amounts are consumed.
  - Another thing to consider is your furry friend might want to explore and climb the tree. Consider putting your tree in an enclosed area or anchor it to the wall.

Poinsettias –

- - As beautiful as they are, Poinsettias are very toxic to our four-legged family members.
  - They contain a sap inside their leaves that can irritate their mouth and esophagus.
  - If this sap is ingested, your pet may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive drooling.

Amaryllis –

- - Another popular holiday plant, Amaryllis, contains a chemical called lycorine which can cause adverse side effects in cats such as vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors.

Holly & Mistletoe –

- - As much as we all want to be kissed under the mistletoe, skipping on these plants will be beneficial for feline.
  - Holly also contains harmful chemicals that are toxic to our fur-babies.
    Symptoms to watch out for if ingested include:
    - Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and drooling
  - Mistletoe contains toxins that are like holly and can cause similar reactions. However, mistletoe can also cause a drop in blood pressure and heart rate, breathing problems, seizures, and sometimes death.

Lilies –

- - The vibrant petals on Lilly plants are mesmerizing and would look perfect around the holiday table but skipping on these could save some life changing issues with your pet.
  - Lilies consumed can cause kidney failure and arrhythmias.

Azaleas –

- - Another beautiful plant to have around the house that can cause some serious issues in cats.
  - If consumed Azaleas can cause:
    - Excessive drooling
    - Decreased appetite
    - Weakness
    - Vomiting
    - Diarrhea
    - Cardiac failure

To avoid your (arguably) favorite family member from a trip to the emergency room this holiday season, don’t include any of the above in your holiday decorations.

We understand that some come in gifts, some are put away, and some accidents happen. If you notice a bite missing out of your Poinsettia or the water in your Christmas tree a bit lower than it should be, please immediately call your veterinarian or Animal Poison Control Center (888-246-4435).