Are Holly Berries Poisonous?
Yes. Holly berries are toxic to people, dogs, and cats if eaten, containing compounds that cause vomiting, diarrhea, and drowsiness. A berry or two is rarely dangerous to an adult, but they can seriously affect small children and pets, so keep cut holly out of reach.
Holly berries are poisonous if eaten. They contain saponins and related compounds that irritate the digestive system, and swallowing several can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, and dehydration. The leaves are also mildly toxic and their spines add injury to the risk.
The danger is greatest for small children and pets. A curious toddler or a dog that chews on holiday holly can ingest enough to become sick, and cats are sensitive as well. An adult who eats a berry by accident is unlikely to be seriously harmed, but no one should eat them.
Take sensible precautions: keep fresh and artificial holly decorations out of reach of children and animals, sweep up fallen berries where pets roam, and if you suspect a child or pet has eaten holly, contact a poison control center or veterinarian promptly. Wild birds, by contrast, eat holly berries safely — the fruit is an important winter food source for them.