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7 Popular Holiday Plants That Aren’t Safe for Dogs or Cats

Published on August 12, 2026
7 Popular Holiday Plants That Aren’t Safe for Dogs or Cats

01of 07 Holly

sky-pencil-holly-3VuAKBGmqkwAm0h1RBI4IP

David Goldberg

Despite its beauty, both the leaves and berries of the holly plant are mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so be careful adorning your holiday tablescape or wreaths with it. Ingesting parts of the holly plant may cause your pet some indigestion, which can lead to vomiting or diarrhea.


02

of 07

Mistletoe

Closeup of mistletoe with berries hanging

Chiara Benelli / Getty Images

When it comes to pets, mistletoe is a bit tricky. According to the ASPCA, the level of mistletoe toxicity largely depends on what kind you're dealing with. Luckily, the effects of your pet eating mistletoe are quite mild except if they're ingesting large quantities, which is unlikely to occur inside your home.



03

of 07

Amaryllis

A potted amaryllis plant with flowers on a windowsill decorated with small ornaments

Carson Downing

Amaryllis is a natural showstopper, thanks to its breathtaking and festive blooms, and the same aesthetic features may attract your curious critter. Amaryllis is not typically fatal to cats and dogs, but can cause undesirable symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, salivation, and tremors. For this reason, it's best to keep paws off this beautiful plant.




04

of 07

Easter Lilies

Easter lily blooms with green foliage

Dean Schoeppner

Wait, Easter? You read that correctly. These stunning white blooms are a common centerpiece during the winter season, too. However, cat owners should pass on Easter lilies, as they are highly toxic. Even ingesting small amounts can cause kidney failure if not promptly treated.


05

of 07

Christmas Trees (Pine or Fir)

decorated real christmas tree in living room

Scott Little

Many households enjoy having a real Christmas tree during the holiday season, so much so that it's a must-have tradition. But if you have pets at home, make sure to keep a watchful eye on fallen needles, as they can cause digestive issues or pose a puncture risk. However, by taking some precautions, you can keep your tree and pets safe. Vacuum often and consider setting up a pet-proof barrier around your tree.


06

of 07

Yew

Yew tree branch with red berries on a wooden surface a pine cone in the corner

John Bessler / Getty Images

Yew do not want your pets near this festive shrub. While decked out in green and red, this holiday scene stealer is highly toxic to pets (and humans) when ingested. The berries themselves are relatively harmless, but their seeds are extremely toxic.


07

of 07

Paperwhites

paperwhite arrangement

Michael Garland

Much like the Easter lily, the delicate paperwhite is a fan-favorite during winter months. They are relatively easy to grow indoors and have a sweet fragrance to boot. Unfortunately, also like the Easter lily, paperwhites are toxic to pets. If you can't resist these blooms, make sure your pets cannot reach them.01

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