Is Christmas tree toxic to dogs?
Christmas tree (Pseudotsuga menziessii; Abies balsamea; fraseri; Pinus; Cupress, as listed by Pet Poison Helpline) is toxic to dogs (S2 Irritant): Pet Poison Helpline says tree sap can cause irritation and ingestion usually causes mild, self-limiting drooling and vomiting.
- TOXINnot specified by the source
- WHAT TO EXPECTIrritation from tree sap; Usually mild, self-limiting drooling and vomiting
- CALL THE VETContact your vet if signs persist or worsen after Christmas tree exposure.
Symptoms
| SIGN |
|---|
| Irritation from tree sap |
| Usually mild, self-limiting drooling and vomiting |
If your dog just ate it
Same floor look, minus the risk
3 floor plants graded S0 — non-toxic on record.
FAQ
Is a Christmas tree toxic to dogs?
Yes, for the Christmas trees listed in Pet Poison Helpline's Holiday Toxins article: S2 Irritant. Pet Poison Helpline says tree sap can cause irritation and ingestion usually causes mild, self-limiting drooling and vomiting. Move the Christmas tree out of your dog's reach and contact your vet if signs persist or worsen.
Which Christmas trees does this verdict cover?
Pet Poison Helpline's Holiday Toxins article lists Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziessii), Balsam fir (Abies balsamea), Fraser fir (fraseri), pine trees (Pinus), and cypress trees (Cupress). This verdict follows those five listed groups. Other trees sold as Christmas trees are not covered and are not graded here.
Why does the scientific-name line contain "fraseri" and "Cupress"?
Pet Poison Helpline prints "Fraser fir ( fraseri)" and "cypress trees (Cupress)". It also prints "Pseudotsuga menziessii" for Douglas fir. This page retains those spellings and the incomplete "fraseri" name as the source records them; it does not supply a missing genus or infer a different scientific name.
Is a Christmas tree toxic to cats?
Yes, for the Christmas trees listed in Pet Poison Helpline's Holiday Toxins article: S2 Irritant. Pet Poison Helpline says tree sap can cause irritation and ingestion usually causes mild, self-limiting drooling and vomiting. Move the Christmas tree out of your cat's reach and contact your vet if signs persist or worsen.