Is Blue Princess Holly toxic to cats?

Yes — blue princess holly is toxic to cats according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any cat that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Holly (Ilex species) as toxic to cats and dogs; saponins are the toxic principle. The showy red berries are especially tempting and, with the leaves, cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and depression if eaten, while spiny leaves can mechanically injure the mouth and gut. Keep berries and clippings away from pets.

ASPCA lists Holly (Ilex species) as toxic to cats and dogs; saponins are the toxic principle. The showy red berries are especially tempting and, with the leaves, cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and depression if eaten, while spiny leaves can mechanically injure the mouth and gut. Keep berries and clippings away from pets. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your cat has had access to blue princess holly.

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your cat's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Blue Princess Holly is toxic to dogs as well. See the full blue princess holly pet-safety guide for both species.

For a similar look without the risk, see the best cats-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.