Is Christmas Cactus Poisonous to Cats or Dogs?

Is Christmas cactus toxic to dogs?

No. The ASPCA lists Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) as non-toxic to dogs, cats and horses, and PetMD answers "The short answer is no." It can still upset a dog's stomach if eaten.

Is Christmas cactus toxic to cats?

No. The ASPCA lists Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) as non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses, and PetMD calls it "generally considered low in toxicity for cats, but it can still cause digestive issues if ingested."

Known caveats

For dogs, PetMD says plant fibers can irritate the mouth, esophagus and stomach, which may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite and even lethargy (source).

For cats, PetMD says the fibrous material can irritate the mouth, throat and stomach lining (source).

Both PetMD articles say eating a large amount can raise the risk of a gastrointestinal blockage, where the stomach or intestines become obstructed by the ingested material.

If treatment is needed, PetMD says a dog may be treated with fluid therapy, anti-nausea medication or anti-diarrhea medication, and a cat with anti-nausea medication or fluids, with X-rays if a blockage is suspected.

Symptoms to watch for

Signs below are the digestive upset PetMD describes for this plant. The ASPCA page lists no toxic principle or clinical signs.

In dogs

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Excessive drooling

In cats

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite
• Nausea

What to do if your dog or cat ate it

1. Remove any plant material from your pet's mouth and move the plant out of reach.
2. Note what was eaten, roughly how much, and when. Keep a leaf or a photo of the plant handy.
3. Call your vet, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply), or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
4. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison line tells you to.
5. Follow your vet's advice. Your vet may suggest watching your pet at home or bringing them in for an exam.

Frequently asked questions

Is a Christmas cactus toxic to dogs?

No. The ASPCA lists Christmas cactus as non-toxic to dogs, and PetMD says the short answer is no, though plant fibers can still irritate a dog's mouth and stomach.

Is a Christmas cactus toxic to cats?

No. The ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to cats, and PetMD calls it generally low in toxicity for cats, though it can still cause digestive issues if ingested.

Why did my cat vomit after eating Christmas cactus?

PetMD says the fibrous plant material can irritate a cat's mouth, throat and stomach lining, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite and lethargy. Call your vet if signs continue.

What if my dog ate a lot of Christmas cactus?

PetMD says a large amount raises the risk of an intestinal blockage. If your dog vomits more than once or seems unwell, call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.

Sources

• ASPCA: Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii): Toxicity line.
• PetMD: Is a Christmas cactus poisonous to dogs? (reviewed by Renee Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT; updated Nov. 14, 2024): Dog verdict, plant fibers, symptoms, blockage, treatment.
• PetMD: Is a Christmas cactus poisonous to cats? (reviewed by Renee Schmid, DVM, DABT, DABVT; updated Aug. 21, 2025): Cat verdict, fibrous material, symptoms, blockage, treatment.

Last reviewed: 2026-10-06. This is a household reference, not veterinary advice.