Is Christmas Rose toxic to dogs and cats?
How serious is Christmas Rose for pets?
Cardiac glycosides (bufadienolides) plus saponins and protoanemonin cause drooling, abdominal pain, diarrhea, colic, and depression, with cardiovascular disturbance possible in larger ingestions. Rarely fatal in pets but the cardiac risk makes any ingestion worth a vet call.
Helleborus niger
Also called: Hellebore, Lenten Rose, and Easter Rose.
What makes it toxic
- Cardiac glycosides
- Saponins
- Protoanemonin
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Symptoms to watch for
- Drooling
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Colic
- Depression
What to do if your pet chewed it
- Move the plant out of reach so they cannot take another bite.
- If your pet is alert, gently rinse their mouth and offer a little water.
- Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435, especially if you see drooling, vomiting, swelling, or lethargy.
Pet-safe swaps
The same green look without the toxicity worry. Each of these is non-toxic to both dogs and cats in our data.
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Buy Apollo a treatQuick answers about Christmas Rose
Is Christmas Rose toxic to cats?
Yes, Christmas Rose is toxic to cats. See all 127 plants toxic to cats.
Is Christmas Rose toxic to dogs?
Yes, Christmas Rose is toxic to dogs. See all 124 plants toxic to dogs.
What is Christmas Rose also called?
Christmas Rose (Helleborus niger) is also called Hellebore, Lenten Rose, and Easter Rose.
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Scan your plantAlways confirm with a veterinarian or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435) before assuming safety. This is a household reference, not a substitute for professional guidance in a suspected poisoning.
· Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control.
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