Poinsettias are considered only mildly toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. In practice, most exposures cause irritated mouths, drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea if ingested, and occasional skin irritation from sap. Serious or life-threatening effects are rare. What this means for pet owners

• If a pet chews on or ingests poinsettia leaves, stems, or flowers:
  • Expect possible mild gastrointestinal upset (drooling, vomiting, diarrhea) and mouth or throat irritation.
  • Skin contact with the sap may cause local irritation in some animals.
• If a large amount is eaten, or if there are signs of distress, contact a veterinarian promptly.
• Non-ingestion exposure (sap contact with skin or eyes) can cause irritation; rinse or wipe the area with water if this occurs.

Safety tips

• Place poinsettias out of reach of curious pets, or use a barrier to prevent access.
• Consider choosing non-toxic decorative options for households with dogs or cats.
• Monitor pets after the holiday season for any unusual behavior or gastrointestinal signs if the plant was present.

If you’d like, I can summarize current veterinary guidance from major organizations or provide an at-a-glance quick-reference for symptoms to watch for.