American Holly
Ilex opaca · Aquifoliaceae
How it looks
American holly is an evergreen shrub or tree with thick, glossy deep-green leaves edged with sharp spine-like teeth. In winter, round red fruits hang in clusters, common in Christmas decorations. Height 16–50 ft (5–15 m).
Mild caution — stomach irritation
The fruit and leaves of American Holly contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble of American Holly usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the saponins and methylxanthines in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Ilex opaca
- Common name
- American Holly
- Family
- Aquifoliaceae
- Toxic parts
- Fruit, Leaves
- Compounds
- Saponins, Methylxanthines
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Aquifoliaceae
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