Is English Holly toxic to dogs and cats?
How serious is English Holly for pets?
Saponins in the leaves and berries cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression; the spiny leaves add mechanical mouth/GI irritation risk. Generally low toxicity and rarely life-threatening, but large berry ingestions warrant a vet call.
Ilex aquifolium
Also called: Holly and Christmas Holly.
What makes it toxic
Saponins.
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Depression
- ASPCA notes the leaves and berries are low in toxicity
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 English Holly
Is English Holly toxic to cats?
Yes, English Holly is toxic to cats. See all 127 plants toxic to cats.
Is English Holly toxic to dogs?
Yes, English Holly is toxic to dogs. See all 124 plants toxic to dogs.
What is English Holly also called?
English Holly (Ilex aquifolium) is also called Holly and Christmas Holly.
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Not sure this is the plant you have? Scan it.
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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