Holiday flowers are popular items to adorn the home with, but if you have pets, they can pose a serious health hazard that will require emergency care from a veterinarian. Thankfully, you won’t have to go totally plant-free this season. The following guide explains which flowers to avoid and which plants you can use as replacements.

5 Holiday Plants Veterinarians Want You to Replace

1. Mistletoe

You may hang up mistletoe to get a holiday smooch, but it won’t do your pet any favors. The plant contains toxic chemicals that can cause a drop in blood pressure, breathing issues, intestinal problems, seizures, or even death. Consider hanging bundles of sage as a replacement.

2. Amaryllis

With their stunning red petals and deep green leaves, amaryllis make gorgeous holiday plants. Unfortunately, the whole flower is an irritant if consumed and the bulb will cause gastrointestinal issues, salivating, a decrease in appetite, and vomiting. For the sake of your pet’s health, use roses or red bromeliads instead.

3. Poinsettia

As the classic Christmas flower, poinsettias may be difficult for particularly festive families to avoid. But if your pet gets a hold of these brilliant blooms, they’ll experience irritation of oral tissues, nausea, and vomiting. Keep your carpets clean and your pet happy with equally merry Christmas cacti.

4. Holly

Second only to the Christmas tree, holly is one of the most iconic plants to have around the holidays. Their juicy-looking berries can attract attention from pets, however, and result in severe diarrhea, vomiting, and drooling. Similar to holly in their vibrant colors, the Japanese silverberry will make an excellent substitute.

5. Lilies

Not all lilies are toxic, but those that are can result in conditions as serious as feline renal failure. Dogs may also experience tremors, depression, and gastrointestinal distress. True jasmine is a perfectly pet-friendly alternative.

If you suspect your pet has eaten something poisonous this holiday season, take them to Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital on Oahu, HI. Their veterinarians have served area pets since 1972. They know that dangerous situations can occur at any time, so this veterinary hospital is open after hours for emergencies. View their extensive list of pet services online, which includes specialized procedures like stem cell therapy and acupuncture. To make an appointment with a veterinarian, call their office at (808) 671-7387.