Is Mistletoe Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: American Mistletoe, European Mistletoe, Viscum album · Viscum album / Phoradendron serotinum
What makes it toxic
Viscotoxins and lectins in the leaves and berries (European mistletoe), with tyramine contributing in American varieties. These irritate the gut and, in higher doses, depress the cardiovascular system.
Warning signs to watch for
Drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain within hours. Larger ingestions can cause low blood pressure, a slow or irregular pulse, wobbliness and collapse.
What to do if your cat eats it
Remove any berries or leaves, and call your vet immediately for guidance — mistletoe doses are unpredictable. Repeated vomiting, an odd heartbeat or collapse means an ER visit now.
Common questions
Are mistletoe berries the most dangerous part?
Berries and leaves both carry the toxins. A cat knocking berries off a hanging sprig is a realistic holiday scenario, so keep them secured and sweep up dropped berries.
Is artificial mistletoe the safe option?
Yes, faux sprigs eliminate the poisoning risk entirely — just keep any glued-on berries away from a cat that chews plastic.
How much mistletoe is dangerous?
Toxicity varies by species and season, which makes every ingestion worth a vet call rather than a wait-and-see approach.
More plants checked for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.