Holiday Plants and Cats: Lilies, Poinsettias, Mistletoe and More
TL;DR: Lilies are the most dangerous holiday plant for cats: even pollen or vase water can cause kidney failure. Poinsettia, holly, mistletoe and amaryllis can also make pets ill, so keep them out of reach or choose artificial versions.
Not every festive plant is equally risky. Here is how they compare.
Highest risk: lilies
True lilies (Lilium) and daylilies (Hemerocallis) can cause acute kidney failure in cats. Even pollen licked off fur or water from the vase can be enough. Lilies are common in winter bouquets, so check flower deliveries. Any exposure is an emergency.
Moderate risk
- Mistletoe: can cause vomiting and diarrhoea; larger amounts can affect the heart. Artificial mistletoe is the safe choice.
- Holly: berries and leaves cause vomiting, drooling and stomach upset.
- Amaryllis and narcissus bulbs: stomach upset; the bulbs are the most toxic part.
Lower risk than its reputation: poinsettia
Poinsettia sap usually causes only mild drooling or vomiting. It is best kept out of reach, but it is not the deadly plant many people think.
Christmas trees
Fir needles can irritate the mouth and stomach, and tree water may contain fertiliser or bacteria. Cover the stand.
Cat-safe choices
Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera), African violets, Boston fern and orchids are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA.