Toxic to cats · Plants

Is Holly toxic to cats?

Moderate severity

Yes. It can cause real illness — contact your vet if your pet has been exposed.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lip smacking
  • Drooling
  • Head shaking
  • Mechanical injury
  • Gastrointestinal upset

How vets treat it

Keep plants out of reach; contact a veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline for specific treatment recommendations if ingestion is suspected.

Why it's dangerous

Toxicity occurs through the ingestion of saponins and other compounds, combined with mechanical injury to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract caused by the spiny leaves.

Toxic compound: Saponins, methylxanthines, and cyanogens

Good to know

The spiny leaves contribute significantly to the clinical signs through mechanical irritation.

Sources

This page is informational and is not veterinary advice. If your pet has been exposed to something risky, contact your vet or an animal poison control line right away.

More substances toxic to cats

African Wonder Tree Extreme severity Andromeda Japonica Extreme severity Angel's Trumpet Extreme severity Autumn Crocus Extreme severity Everything toxic to cats →

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