What happens if a dog eats a poinsettia?

Answer 1

Many of us have been taught over the years that poinsettias are deadly poisonous to our dogs. While they are toxic, it has not been known to actually kill a pet in my lifetime. It will cause gastrointestinal upset and can also cause nausea and vomiting, but it will not kill them. What can cause them harm, though is the aftermath of vomiting and/or not taking in fluids which can lead to severe dehydration in a pet which COULD cause severe undesirable effects.

According to www.petside.com, ( the specific link: http://www.petside.com/petsideblog/2008/12/pointsettias-for-pets-are-they.php . The article is titled: "Poinsettias for Pets: Are They Safe?" ) while the poinsettias are an attractive plant, they are not severely poisonous. In all actuality, lilies of any kind are the poisonous culprits as it doesn't take very much to make a beloved pet very ill.

According to http://www.drjwv.com/training/ (Holiday Hazards: Are You Ready for the Holidays?) additional toxins may include the sprays or perfumes used to treat or decorate a plant. I've seen poinsettias sprayed with glitter and paint and sold in stores. I never bought them either way because I always thought they were deadly poisonous to a pet. So this added decoration only increases the potential for toxicity for your pets should they eat it.

Err on the side of caution and call a professional.

Answer 2

In the past, poinsettia plants were considered to be extremely toxic to dogs. However, the poinsettia plant is now considered to be mildly toxic to both cats and dogs. It is likely to case nausea and or vomiting. Reactions can vary depending on the amount consumed.

Answer 3

Yes, that white sap inside the stems is irritating and can make them quite sick.

Answer 4

Poinsettia plants are poisonous to animals and can kill a dog within a day's time.