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Poinsettias are extremely popular at Christmas time. You can find them in grocery stores, flower shops, and other places. They really make a home feel very Christmassy! But what happens if a dog eats a poinsettia leaf? Can the poinsettia leaf make the dog sick?
Has your dog eaten a poinsettia leaf? Are you worried that the poinsettia leaf will make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about poinsettia leaves and whether they can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What are Poinsettia Leaves?
Poinsettias originally came from Mexico, where they grow wild. The plants are famous for their brilliant red “flowers” and deep green leaves. They get their name from Joel Robert Poinsett, the first US Minister to Mexico. It’s said that he brought the plants back to the US from Mexico in the 1820s, where they’ve been popular ever since!
While poinsettias are usually safe to use in homes, what happens if a dog eats a poinsettia leaf?
Poinsettia Leaves & Dogs
Poinsettia plants are mildly toxic to dogs. All parts of the plant, including the red “petals” and green leaves, contain chemicals and saponins that are toxic to dogs. What’s more, the red “petals” of the plant are leaves, and they contain chemicals called diterpenoid euphorbol esters.
The plants also contain irritants in the sap that keep most dogs from eating too much of the poinsettia plant.
Poinsettia toxicity varies depending on the size and weight of the dog. For instance, a small dog eating one leaf may have more acute symptoms than a much larger dog who ate one leaf of the plant.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Poinsettia Leaf Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten a poinsettia leaf:
- Excessive drooling
- Licking the lips repeatedly
- Irritation of the skin, face, lips, or nose
- Red, itchy eyes
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
In many cases, poinsettia toxicity is not serious or life-threatening. However, the dog must still receive treatment from the vet.
Treatment of Poinsettia Leaf Ingestion in Dogs
The vet may induce vomiting or give your dog activated charcoal, which removes toxins from your dog’s system. It’s also possible that your fur baby may require an IV with fluids to keep him hydrated. The vet will also treat other symptoms as they arise.
The good news is that most dogs make a full recovery if they receive prompt treatment. When your fur baby comes home, it’s a good idea to place the plant out of your dog’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
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