Is Mistletoe Poisonous to Pets?
The winter season is upon us, and amongst the trees, Christmas flowers, and snowflakes, the team here at Euroflorist have issued a warning to pet owners who have one Christmas staple as part of their festive decor: mistletoe.
Mistletoe tradition originates from Norse mythology, as mistletoe symbolised love - which is where the idea of kissing underneath it comes from, a tradition that many Brits still follow after starting in the 1700’s.
However, for those with four-legged friends, mistletoe is a dangerous plant for dogs and cats, as it contains toxic compounds that can cause various symptoms when ingested, and in some cases, fatalities. These toxic substances include viscotoxins (proteins that can cause cell damage) and lectins and polysaccharides (that interfere with cell function and immune responses).
Is Mistletoe Poisonous?
Is it safe to eat mistletoe berries? The short answer is no, not even for us humans. And whilst it’s easy for us to understand, it's not exactly something we can explain to our pets.
For our pets, the severity of symptoms depends on the amount of mistletoe ingested and the size of the animal, but the common symptoms include:
Gastrointestinal distress - Vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.
Neurological signs - Weakness, lack of coordination, and seizures in severe cases.
Cardiovascular effects - Slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, and irregular heart rhythms.
Lethargy and drooling.
How to Keep Pets Safe From Mistletoe
For those who want to still enjoy mistletoe but protect your pets, the team here at Euroflorist shares 4 key precautions to take:
1. Choose Your Placement Wisely
Hang mistletoe safely out of reach, and avoid areas where pets can jump or climb onto. Even small amounts of mistletoe can be toxic, so this is crucial for your pets’ safety.
While hanging it above doorways is traditional, ensure it’s far from surfaces such as tables, counters, or furniture that your pets can easily hop onto. Cats, in particular, are known to be professional climbers, so consider your pets’ individual behaviour when choosing a location.
2. Perform Regular Checks
Inspect your decorations regularly to ensure no loose berries or leaves have fallen to the ground, as your pets may find them appealing to eat. Even if you feel like you’ve hung your mistletoe securely, regular inspections are essential.
Pets, particularly curious dogs and cats, might play with or consume fallen pieces, so be sure to sweep or vacuum frequently around the areas where the mistletoe is displayed to remove any fallen debris.
3. Use Artificial Alternatives
Artificial mistletoe offers a safe, pet-friendly alternative that mimics the festive vibes without the risks from the real thing.
Many high-quality artificial options are designed to be visually indistinguishable from the real thing, and this also ensures longevity and reusability for future Christmases to come. However, it’s important to check for non-toxic materials in these artificial decorations to ensure complete safety for your pets.
4. Take Immediate Action
If you suspect your pet has ingested mistletoe, contact your vet immediately, as it's important to act quickly. Symptoms of poisoning can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, slowed heart rate or seizures.
Quick intervention is vital to prevent complications, and your vet may recommend treatments to help with any symptoms at home in the short term.