Mildly toxic — irritant
Mildly toxic — and far less dangerous than its reputation. Poinsettias cause mild mouth and stomach irritation, not the deadly poisoning the myth suggests. Other holiday plants are far worse.
The poinsettia’s fearsome reputation is largely a myth. Its milky sap can irritate the mouth and stomach, causing drooling and mild vomiting if chewed, and can irritate the skin or eyes on contact. But serious poisoning is very rare, and fatalities are essentially unheard of. The bigger festive dangers are true lilies (deadly to cats), chocolate, and holly and mistletoe — poinsettia is mild by comparison.
Both dogs and cats may get mild irritation. Cats batting at the bright bracts and pets nibbling a festive display are the usual cases.
Usually no treatment is needed beyond removing the plant and offering water; wipe sap off skin or fur. Call your vet if vomiting is persistent or your pet seems unwell. Over the holidays, prioritise keeping lilies, chocolate, and holly/mistletoe away from pets — see our emergency guide.
General information, not veterinary advice. If your pet has eaten a toxic plant or shows symptoms, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately. Full disclaimer.