At a glance
| Plant | Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) |
|---|---|
| Cats | Toxic |
| Dogs | Toxic |
| Toxic principle | irritant sap |
| Signs ASPCA lists | irritation of the mouth and stomach; sometimes vomiting |
| ASPCA page | Poinsettia, checked November 10, 2026 |
What else to know
The milky sap is what does it. NC State notes that the stems and leaves bleed it when cut or torn.
Christmas rose (hellebore), another holiday-named plant, is also on ASPCA’s toxic list for cats and dogs; its page names cardiac glycosides among the compounds.
Look-alikes
- Christmas cactus: non-toxic to cats, non-toxic to dogs (ASPCA). The pet-safe holiday plant on ASPCA’s list.
- Christmas rose (hellebore): toxic to cats, toxic to dogs (ASPCA). Not a rose and not a poinsettia. ASPCA lists cardiac glycosides, saponins and protoanemonin, with drooling, belly pain and diarrhea.
Care basics
Light: Part shade indoors; outdoors, 4 to 5 hours of sun a day.
Soil and water: Water when the soil surface feels dry, and don’t overwater. Keep it at 65 to 70°F, away from heat vents, fireplaces and cold drafts.
Source: NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Euphorbia pulcherrima.
If your pet ate some
Call your vet, or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, as soon as you can. ASPCA runs the line 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and says a consultation fee may apply.
Call (888) 426-4435 · ASPCA Animal Poison Control
This page is reference information, not veterinary advice. Toxicity facts are summarized in our own words from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list; Plamp is not affiliated with the ASPCA.
