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Poinsettia's & Pets 
The poinsettia is the most widely tested consumer plant on the market today, proving the myth about the popular holiday plant to be false:

  • Scientific research from The Ohio State University has proved the poinsettia to be non-toxic to both humans and pets. All parts of the plant were tested, including the leaves and sap.

  • According to POISINDEX, the national information center for poison control centers, a child would have to ingest 500-600 leaves in order to exceed the experimental doses that found no toxicity.

  • A study by Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University found that out of 22,793 reported poinsettia exposures there was essentially no toxicity significance of any kind. The study used national data collected by the American Association of Poison Control Centers.

  • The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reports that keeping this plant out of the reach of pets to avoid stomach upset is a good idea, however pet owners need not fear the poinsettia and banish it from their homes for fear of a fatal exposure.

  • As with any non-food product, however, the poinsettia is not meant to be eaten and can cause varying degrees of discomfort; therefore, the plant should be kept out of the reach of young children and curious pets.


How to Keep a Cat Away From Poinsettias
Contrary to popular folklore, poinsettias don't instantly cause cats to get violently sick or die, but they can cause gastrointestinal problems in felines. 

If you own a cat, there's no reason you can't enjoy a poinsettia during holiday time. With a little planning, you can keep a cat away from your poinsettias.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

  1. Place the poinsettia and other toxic plants like mistletoe on hard-to-reach shelves or in rooms that are usually locked or inaccessible to your cat. Sure, cats are notorious for getting into even the most far-off corners of your house, but you can keep plants away from them if you can think like a cat.

  2. Put plastic bags or aluminum foil underneath your plant. Cats dislike walking or stepping on these materials.

  3. Gain your cat's attention. A happy and involved cat is less likely to gnaw on a poinsettia. Buy some new cat toys or give him some extra treats.

  4. Invest in some feline training. Cats don't respond to disciplinary training the way dogs do, but repeated admonitions can keep your cat away from the poinsettia, at least for a while.

  5. Mist your poinsettia with a special spray that gives off an odor or flavor that cats dislike. There are several brands available at your local pet store. These sprays are not harmful to pets or humans.





 

* This information is intended as guidelines only. Please check with your doctor or veterinarian regarding your specific situation. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of all information provided.
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