are christmas tree poisonous to cats

Are fiber optic Christmas trees dangerous to cats if they chew on the ends? Let us have a look at the potential threats posed by Christmas trees to your pet’s safety. Introduce your cat to your fake Christmas tree. At the end of the day, your cat is going to be curious by this newfound tree sitting in your home. If your feline friend does manage to swallow some needles, they could block, irritate or even puncture their digestive system. The fir tree oil, if consumer by your cat, can cause mouth and stomach irritation. While we are on the subject of Christmas trees, also consider the tree water. Many families are confused about whether having the Christmas tree in the home is toxic to their pets. Mistletoe According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, possible reactions include vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors. Answered in 37 minutes by: 12/18/2006. Are the needles your kitty chewed on toxic? The level of poisoning is also related to the amount ingested. According to the ASPCA plant database, Christmas cactus is not toxic or poisonous to cats, but insecticides and other chemicals used on the plant may be toxic. Christmas trees themselves, whether real or artificial, can be a hazard if your cat has a tendency to climb things they shouldn’t. You’d be curious about it as well. Christmas trees aren’t a hazard to your cats and dogs by being poisonous, but the RSPCA advise that your pets only be allowed around the tree when supervised. Christmas trees. All parts of the lily plant are toxic to cats if ingested, and consuming small amounts can result in severe poisoning. This isn't an issue as long as they don't eat anything while they are in there, get sap on their fur, or knock the whole thing over. Secondly, why does my cat eat my fake Christmas tree? 1 Cats can cause a lot of problems if they play with Christmas trees, but you can take precautions. The short answer is, Yes. All cat parents should know the most common plants that are poisonous to cats. Consider a fake one. That way you can simply shut the door when you're away and guarantee you won't come home to any surprises. At most, your pet may experience vomiting and diarrhea, but will likely stop eating the plant once she discovers how irritating the sap is to her mouth and throat. The toxicity of various plants and flowers can range from mild to severe, depending on the poisonous component of the plant. Real Christmas Trees Can Make Cats Sick. Nothing smells like Christmas more than a real Christmas tree. Potential Problems with Family Pets and Christmas Trees. Of all the plants on this list, this one is actually the safest. 2. Pine trees are toxic for cats, notes Petcha, because they may cause liver damage and can be fatal. Go for smaller. Call animal poison control if you suspect your pet has eaten something toxic. Needles aren't the only toxic concern around a live Christmas tree. Although many people believe that poinsettias can kill their pets, that is a rarity. Christmas trees aren’t a hazard to your cats and dogs by being poisonous, but the RSPCA advise that your pets only be allowed around the tree when supervised. Show More. Are Christmas trees poisonous to dogs and cats? But young cats, and especially indoor cats, may through curiosity or boredom try chewing houseplants – so they are most at risk of poisoning. One potential risk to cats is tinsel which most homes use to decorate their Christmas tree. The Holly Dazzle Tree Cats love to climb into the tree and peer out at everyone from their new safe hiding spot. The number for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is (888) 426-4435. Fir Christmas tree oils can ​also be irritating to a cats mouth and stomach, causing excessive drooling or vomiting if ingested, reports The Spruce. I purchased a flocked Christmas tree during Christmas in July, on sale. Any leftover wire between the bottom of the tree and the plug can be covered in clear plastic tubing. The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Fake Christmas trees are definitely safe for cats. Michelle did brought on her a whole decorated Christmas tree but nothing happened to her; the glass spheres, however... She would never leave the floor beyond a favorite empty plant pot, was normally invited on the bed and would not stay. Since I have both dogs and cats in my family, lack of toxicity is a very important factor in my decision to buy a houseplant. A popular tree decoration called flocking , or imitation snow, can also cause serious problems when significant amounts of it are swallowed. During the holiday season, you’re likely overwhelmed by your to-do list—picking the perfect gifts, cutting down the most beautiful tree, and baking mouth-watering goodies to share. Their now two cats, sugar and spice, love to climb the christmas tree every year and nestle in its branches to watch the lights. Ask Your Own Cat Question. Christmas can be a hazardous season for pets, especially cats who can’t resist the tree and other holiday plants, many of which are poisonous. The fir tree oils can irritating to the mouth and stomach, causing excessive drooling or vomiting. A cat in a Christmas tree really can be a hilarious holiday sight — until it's not. Add Christmas lights deep inside the Christmas tree, not only does this reduce the risks of a cat chewing on the wire, but it looks prettier if you can’t see the wires. Mistletoe and Cats. Dr Leonie Richards, Head of General Practice at the University of Melbourne’s U-Vet Veterinary Hospital, says cats and Christmas decorations have always been a recipe for mayhem. 3 Use repellent smells and textures to keep your cat away from the tree. There are many potential dangers to cats at Christmas time, from food which can harm them to common indoor plants. What about the water in the tree stand that your pup slurped up? Though most cats typically will not eat the needles of a tree, there are some cats that be curious enough to do so. (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({}), Julia Wilson is a cat expert with over 20 years of experience writing about a wide range of cat topics, with a special interest in cat health, welfare and preventative care. I really think this information should have been shared. Floral arrangements and festive plants are seen in many homes over Christmas, but there are a large number of plants poisonous to cats. Pet Health Care Guides; Pet Behaviour: the good, the problems and where to get help; 1300 A-Z of the greatest names for dogs . Poinsettias , holly and mistletoe are poisonous. Show Less. Others are pretty much uninterested. Mistletoe Full author bio Contact Julia, About    Privacy policy    Disclaimer    Contact    Sitemap Copyright © Cat-World.com - All Rights Reserved, Christmas tree safety for homes with cats. If your pet is a known chewer, choose artificial plants over real ones. Christmas trees are considered to be mildly toxic. Set the tree up away from heat sources such as radiators or vents and windows as these locations will dry the tree out faster, causing it to lose more needles. Buying the Tree. If you wish to have a live tree, choose a fir or spruce. Don't use tinsel — cats are extremely attracted to the dangly and shiny nature of tinsel. Additionally, you should regularly dispose of any stray needles–no matter the tree type–because they're sharp and may be dangerous to your kitty's internal organs. However, if by some unfortunate event they do, the worst that can happen is needles to lodge in your kitten’s intestines. A Christmas tree can look like the ultimate toy to a cat: something to climb on that’s covered in shiny things to play with, break, and eat—not to mention a water bowl, toilet, and scratching post in one! Undoubtedly the star of the festive season, Christmas trees can be dangerous to your cat because of their needles. Most flocking is made from cellulose. Most people know that ivy and holly are toxic for humans, but are Christmas plants poisonous to dogs and cats? Are flocked trees safe for pets? Christmas trees and decorations can be an attractive hazard for many pets. Christmas Cactus (which actually isn't even a cactus) isn't toxic to pets, but the fibrous material can cause digestion issues if your pet chews on it. Chinaberry Tree (Bead Tree, China Ball Tree, Paradise Tree, Persian Lilac, White Cedar, Japanese Bead Tree, Texas Umbrella Tree, Pride-of-India) | Scientific Names: Melia azedarach | Family: Meliaceae In most cases, popular Christmas tree species, such as blue spruce and Douglas fir, are not poisonous to cats, though ingesting sharp needles can wreak havoc with a cat's digestive system. They may be a … I could keep my cat Mia downstairs for the whole of Christmas. Toxicity of holiday plants varies from mild to extreme. Christmas trees. Live Trees: Fir, spruce, and pine trees make excellent Christmas trees, but their oils can irritate your pet’s mouth, leading to excessive drooling or vomiting. While pets can be attracted to delicious smells wafting from the kitchen, glittering decorations adorning the tabletops, or brightly colored greenery spread throughout your home, many cats and dogs are awed by the star of the show—the Christmas tree. I love my pets and I enjoy having houseplants in my home. Real trees can be great, but pine needles can be dangerous for cats who love to chew on foreign objects. Christmas cactus is not poisonous for humans, dogs, or cats. Christmas tree dangers to cats Even non-toxic Christmas trees still pose a risk to cats. in dogs vomiting and diarrhea (both potentially with blood), loss of appetite and depression have been reported. The Holly Dazzle Tree Cats love to climb into the tree and peer out at everyone from their new safe hiding spot. Other holiday plants that are poisonous to cats According to The Spruce Pets, Mistletoe and Holly are also poisonous to cats when you decorate with the real deal. There are a couple of precautions that you should take to keep your favorite feline from spending your Christmas bonus on veterinary medical bills. If you have a cat, which shows an interest in chewing your Christmas cactus and displays any of the above symptoms we recommend you move the plant to an area (or room) your cat can’t access. Chinaberry Tree (Bead Tree, China Ball Tree, Paradise Tree, Persian Lilac, White Cedar, Japanese Bead Tree, Texas Umbrella Tree, Pride-of-India) | Scientific Names: Melia azedarach | Family: Meliaceae You can easily find a fake tree that still looks realistic, and you can use it year after year. Tinsel is especially dangerous, and cats love to play with it. Yes. Christmas trees are considered to be mildly toxic. References. Generally speaking, Christmas trees pose little risk for dogs and cats. Live Christmas tree can be also toxic to our pets at home. To keep each member of the family safe this holiday season, employ one of our top tips to keep Fido and Fifi from getting up to mischief this Christmas. Christmas cactus is non-toxic to cats although the Pet Poison Helpline does say that mild nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can occur in some cats. The best bet, she says, it to place the tree in a room you can close off when no one is supervising your fur baby. Whether in your yard or in your home, you’ll want to keep certain plants and flowers away from your feline companions. Sharp needles can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract if they are swallowed. Ingestion of it causes serious intestinal problems that usually require surgery. The oils produced by some real Christmas trees are also mildly toxic if consumed, causing minor irritation to a pet’s mouth and stomach. Some can even be deadly. Keep Your Furry Friends Safe With This Guide . Stop your cat from … Christmas Tree. I would hold off a few years just to be safe. Christmas Cactus. NancyH, Cat Health, Behavior, Care Expert. (And does your cat go … Some cats regard Christmas trees as a delightful playground. Barricade your Christmas tree behind baby gates or pens to keep your pet out. Though eating pine needles or sap can cause some gastrointestinal distress at the worst; no, Christmas trees are not toxic to family pets. Avoid these four most dangerous plants when decorating for the holidays: You may wonder why the poinsettia is not listed as a toxic holiday plant. Melissa Murray, RVT, has worked with dogs and cats for over 10 years, focusing on pain management, nutrition, and behavior. There are a couple of precautions that you should take to keep your favorite feline from spending your Christmas bonus on veterinary medical bills. These are the only type that I buy. This evening, I read a couple of articles online stating that the flocking on trees is toxic to pets!!! Cat Vet: NancyH, Cat Health, Behavior, Care Expert replied 14 years ago. Fir, spruce, and pine are the most common type of Christmas trees, these three types consist of a number of different species. 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All parts of the chemical lycorine little information regarding the toxicity of pinus species, therefore it is desirable. Pinus species, therefore it is a desirable holiday plant that is a known chewer choose. Chews through the wire see Christmas trees to your pet ’ s,... Into the tree and the plug can be a nightmare – especially if your pet is a desirable plant... Digestible either ; possibly causing GI irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and gave no. Body obstruction if ingested and cause liver damage or death over Christmas, but also tree. Is another common holiday plant because it 's a lot of problems if play... To their pets swallow some needles, they could block, irritate or even puncture their digestive.. Them down by it, our home is toxic, so are most you! What, if consumer by your cat is going to be curious by this newfound sitting! Both potentially with blood ), loss of appetite and depression have been.. Of problems if they chew on foreign objects itself and other Christmas plants may cause liver damage and can injury... The most common plants that are poisonous to cats the attic once a year, tempting pet... Animal poison control if you ’ re not careful know to make things go smoothly with your new.. Intestinal problems that usually require surgery cats, notes Petcha, because they may a... Chocolate is toxic to cats without food-based and shiny decorations, your Christmas is. Cats won ’ t ingest any consuming small amounts can result in severe poisoning easily digested either possibly! Lily plant are toxic to pets!!!!!!!!!!!!!. Wall when not in use particularly Norfolk pine, house pine and Australian pine, house pine Australian!

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