Do you also have Christmas cactus or cacti in your home, or did someone give you a Christmas cactus as a present this holiday season? Are you worried if it is safe for everyone around and as pet owners, including your beloved pet dog? Does it make you wonder about Christmas Cactus Poisonous to Dogs? Don’t worry; this article will discuss everything that you need to know.
Unlike other cactus plants, Christmas cactus or Schlumbergera Buckleyi has elongated leaves that end in pink or red flowers. It is often confused with Thanksgiving cactus, which has toothed ends in each leaf. Both of these plants are usually given as a token of gift during the holiday season.
1. Are Christmas Cactus Harmful For Your Dogs?
The simple answer is no. This plant is non-toxic to your dog. Dogs often tend to eat anything and everything; a new thing creates more curiosity, regardless of whether it is a mere plant. If your pet likes to chew on it or grazes it with its teeth and skin, you need not be worried. Christmas cacti do not contain poisonous or toxic ingredients.
However, this does not mean it might not be harmless to your pet. As the Christmas cactus contains fibrous plant material, consuming a large amount of it can harm your dog.
2. How Can It Affect Your Dos?
The fibrous material of the cactus can irritate your dog after ingestion, which can lead to other problems, such as stomach issues or allergic reactions.
2.1. Gastrointestinal Problems
Your pet may develop stomach issues like constipation or diarrhea. There are also chances of vomiting or getting nauseous because of consuming a large amount of Christmas cactus. These curious creatures tend to have gut issues, as their digestion might speed up or slow down because they consume too much fibre.
These are temporary problems and usually get better on their own. However, if your pet is extra sensitive to stomach irritations, it’s better to check it with the veterinarian.
2.2. Fever and Lethargy
Along with allergic reactions to Christmas cacti, such as stomach problems, your pet may get sleepy if it consumes too much of it. Your dog may also develop a fever if it is allergic to Christmas cacti and consumes it accidentally or without you watching.
3. What to Do if My Dog Eats Christmas Cactus?
If you see your dog taste-testing or directly eating a Christmas cactus, and even though it is not directly poisonous to dogs, keep the following advice in mind:
3.1. Don’t Panic
Pets are always curious. Dogs are especially known to be interested in new things like children. First, if your dog or dogs have accidentally ingested Christmas cactus, don’t panic. Remind yourself that it is not poisonous to dogs. It may be mildly toxic to them at most. It cannot kill your pet, so calm down before taking action.
3.2. Call a Veterinarian
The most important thing to do is inform the veterinarian doctor or any local vet as soon as possible. Tell them the details and report everything. Call the vet as quickly as possible if you notice any of the symptoms or negative effects of consuming the Christmas cactus.
It might be suggested that you bring it in even if your pet is too young or old or suffering from other health issues or diseases. It’s always better to be on the safe side, especially when dealing with the health and life of a loved one.
4. Other Holiday Plants Toxic For Dogs and Cats
Even though the Christmas cactus does not contain any poisonous material for dogs, there are other plants during the holiday season that you should keep away from your pets for good reasons. The following are dangerous, poisonous plants for your dogs and cats.
4.1. Mistletoe
The holiday plant that symbolizes love may not be so lovely to your dogs and cats. Mistletoes cause oral irritation to many animals,s including the most common domestic pets.
4.2. Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree, around which the entire holidays revolve, is also toxic to pets. They tend to cause oral irritation, so pet owners should be extra careful during this time. It is best to use an artificial Christmas tree to be on the safer side.
4.3. Holly
These plants used to decorate should always be kept out of reach of your furry companion. Better use artificial ones, as these plants contain mild to moderate toxins that harm dogs and cats. The leaves, as well as their berries, are poisonous to dogs and cats.
4.4. Amaryllis
The flowers and buds of this plant are harmful to pets. This also causes oral irritation in the mouth and lips if the flowers or buds of this plant are consumed. It is best to avoid them if you own pets and stay safe.
4.5. Poinsettia
This household plant is moderately toxic to dogs and cats. This may result in your pet vomiting or having other short-term intestinal problems. It is safer than many other plants mentioned in the list above, but it is always better to keep an eye open when having pets around such a plant.
5. In The End
Many more plants are toxic to your pet if consumed. They might be too mild and poisonous and should be kept away from them. Most of them cause either stomach irritation, oral irritation, or organ dysfunction.
Remember, Christmascactii aren’t poisonous to dogs, so keeping them in your home this holiday season is okay. However, remember to keep it safe and not let your pets get too close to this or other toxic holiday plants.
Last Updated on by Arnab
