Is Mistletoe Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Mistletoe is moderately toxic to cats and dogs — all parts (especially berries) cause vomiting, and in large amounts heart and breathing problems. A holiday risk. Call a vet.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
Can cause real harm — call a vet for guidance.
In an emergency, do not wait.
Medical disclaimer: This tool is for general information only and isnot a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Toxicity depends on the amount, your pet’s size, and health history. If your pet may have ingested something harmful, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline ((888) 426-4435 / (855) 764-7661) immediately — do not wait for symptoms to appear.
What is Mistletoe?
Mistletoe is moderately toxic to cats and dogs — all parts (especially berries) cause vomiting, and in large amounts heart and breathing problems. A holiday risk. Call a vet.
Also known as: viscum album, phoradendron, american mistletoe, christmas mistletoe.
Symptoms to Watch For
🐕 In Dogs
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling from the toxins (viscotoxins)
- Abdominal pain and reduced appetite
- In larger amounts: a slow heart rate, low blood pressure, and breathing difficulty
- In serious cases: collapse, seizures, or death
🐈 In Cats
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling
- Abdominal pain and reduced appetite
- In larger amounts: a slow heart rate and breathing difficulty
What to Do If Ingested
- Remove any remaining plant material from the mouth.
- Note how much was eaten (berries and leaves are both toxic).
- Call a veterinarian or poison hotline for guidance.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian tells you to.
Steps apply to both cats and dogs. When in doubt, call a vet or poison hotline before acting.
When to Call the Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a poison control hotline right away if you notice any of these:
- A large amount or the berries were eaten
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- A slow or irregular heartbeat
- Lethargy, collapse, or breathing difficulty
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which part of mistletoe is most toxic?
All parts of mistletoe — leaves, stems, and especially the berries — are toxic. The plant contains viscotoxins that irritate the digestive tract and, in larger amounts, affect the heart and nervous system. The berries are the most common cause of poisoning during the holidays.
What are the signs of mistletoe poisoning?
Vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling are the most common signs. With larger ingestions, watch for a slow heart rate, low blood pressure, breathing difficulty, and in serious cases collapse or seizures. Call a vet if a large amount or the berries were eaten.
Is mistletoe a common poisoning risk?
Yes, especially during the winter holidays when mistletoe is brought indoors as a decoration. Pets can easily reach hanging sprigs or fallen berries. Keep mistletoe out of reach and pick up any fallen berries or leaves right away.
Sources
This entry is reviewed against the following authoritative veterinary sources.
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants Database
- Merck Veterinary Manual — Toxicology
- Pet Poison Helpline — Poisons
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11