Vet warns ‘super toxic’ Christmas decoration could kill your pets: ‘Matter of life and death’

It could be the kiss of death.

Mistletoe is loved by millions of Americans during the holiday season, with lovers locking lips under the festive and flirtatious flora.

But before you deck your halls, consider the threat the decor poses to your pets.

“Mistletoe leaves are super toxic — they can cause heart attacks and even death,” said Dr. Carol Osborne, of Ohio-based Chagrin Falls Pet Clinic, told Chewy.

She says it’s essential to place plants in areas inaccessible to cats and dogs, claiming it “can be a matter of life and death”.

Poinsettias are another popular plant placed around homes and offices at Christmas – but this decoration is less dangerous, according to Dr. Osborne.

“We see all these warnings online about poinsettias,” the vet said. “The truth of the matter is that most plants can make the animal drool or colic or a little diarrhea, but most plants are not fatal.”

She says their dangers are “overstated,” citing the plant’s low level of toxicity.

However, that hasn’t stopped the American Kennel Club from saying that the festive flowers pose a threat to dogs if they eat the plant’s white sap, which “contains chemicals similar to those in household detergents.”

If a large amount of the liquid is consumed, it may result in vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation.

Meanwhile, Christmas cacti, Christmas roses and even Christmas trees can cause adverse reactions if ingested by pets.

Experts told Chewy that lilies are also extremely poisonous to pets, and any kind of exposure can result in gastrointestinal symptoms, lethargy, loss of appetite or changes in urination and requires medical attention.

“It is important to note that all parts of most lily species are highly toxic to cats. Houses with cats should never have lilies in them,” American Kennel Club Chief Veterinarian Dr. Jerry Klein said in a blog post, noting that flowers are often overlooked in floral arrangements.

“Amaryllis, balsam, pine, cedar and walnut are among the common holiday plants that can be dangerous and, in some cases, poisonous to pets that eat them,” he added.

If pet owners suspect their fur baby has been exposed to a potentially toxic plant, it is vital to seek veterinary attention. Dr. Osborne recommends taking a photo of the plant to show the doctor.

“If you think your pet has ingested a toxic plant, don’t wait!” Dr. Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of the San Diego Humane Society, told Chewy. “Plan to see your vet or an emergency clinic right away. Call first because your vet may ask you to induce vomiting in your pet.”