Are Artificial Christmas Trees Poisonous To Dogs?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Artificial Christmas trees aren't toxic to dogs or cats

so they are technically safer than live Christmas trees, but they can still be dangerous. Artificial needles can still fall off of the tree and pose a threat to your pet if ingested, however they are considered much safer than real trees overall.

Are fake Christmas trees toxic?


Most fake Christmas trees are made from PVC, which is the most toxic type of plastic

. PVC contains chlorine. Chlorine creates byproducts called dioxins and furans—two chemicals that can be extremely toxic.

Is artificial Christmas tree flocking toxic to pets?

Flocking is pretty, but it's

mildly toxic to pets if consumed

. Falling trees: Cat and dog owners should anchor their real or faux tree to the ceiling to prevent their pets from knocking it over.

Are Christmas trees toxic to pets?


Christmas trees are one of many holiday plants that can be toxic to pets

. While trees aren't the greatest concern for pets, they are considered “mildly toxic,” according to pet supply company Hartz. The oils from trees and can cause upset stomachs in animals.

Are dogs OK with real Christmas trees?

While real Christmas trees can cause dogs to have an upset stomach and irritated mouth if they decide to chew on the branches,

they aren't too toxic to dogs

.

Can you have a real Christmas tree around dogs?


Real Christmas trees have sharp needles which could easily get stuck in your pet's paws

. So to avoid any casualties, stick to artificial trees.

Do artificial Christmas trees contain lead?


Artificial trees are made of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, in which lead is used as a stabilizer and softener

. Research has shown that lead dust tends to leach out from fake trees over time, so if yours is more than a dozen years old, be careful.

What is the least toxic artificial Christmas tree?

Renting a living Christmas tree seemed like a good idea. An artificial tree made of PVC is not a non-toxic Christmas tree.

Polyethylene and polypropylene

are safer materials than PVC.

Can artificial trees make you sick?


Artificial trees can also trigger CTS because they house dust and other spores

. The study says anything stored for 11 months will harbor harmful mold spores, including lights and ornaments.

Is artificial snow toxic to dogs?

Fake snow

It is usually made from polyacrylate or polyethylene and these substances are of

low toxicity

. If eaten fake snow could cause a mild gastrointestinal upset with hypersalivation, vomiting and diarrhoea, but the majority of animals remain well, and serious effects are not expected.

What Christmas trees are safe for dogs?

Live Trees:

Fir, spruce, and pine trees

make excellent Christmas trees and are generally non-toxic to pets. The needles, however, can cause oral irritation and in excessive amounts, gastrointestinal upset.

What is the white stuff on fake Christmas trees?

is the

artificial snow

that is sprayed onto Christmas trees to give the effect of a white Christmas. It is often made of cellulose, however regardless of the ingredients, it is suprisingly easy to remove, often simply pulling right off with your fingers. Follow the steps below to de-flock your Christmas tree.

How do I get my dog to stop chewing my Christmas tree?

Why is my dog eating pine needles?

Whether they are on your Christmas tree, a wreath or some garland, pine needles can be a problem if ingested.

The needles can puncture or irritate the lining of your dog's stomach, and the oils can irritate the mucous membranes

. The needles may not kill your pet, but they can make him really uncomfortable and ill.

Do dogs destroy Christmas trees?


One of the worst ways your dog can damage your Christmas tree is by knocking it over, ruining your decorations and scattering branches and needles all across your floor

. To avoid this potential problem, ensure your tree is fully secured.

Can you have a Christmas tree with a puppy?


You Can Do it!

Having a Christmas tree and holiday decorations as well as a puppy will require a bit of thought. You may need to change your traditional decorations or placement of those decorations. You may even need to restrict the puppy's access to the decorated room but that's okay. Keeping him safe is important.

Are plastic trees toxic?

The Problem With Plastic Trees

Artificial trees are typically made with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which is

extremely toxic and polluting to produce, can result in exposures to harmful chemicals when used, and are toxic to dispose of

.

Are artificial trees safer than real trees?

Between 2013-2017, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 160 home fires that started with a Christmas tree ever year, according to data from the National Fire Protection Association. So we can Verify,

yes, a fake tree is safer

—that's as long as your artificial tree is labeled “fire-resistant.”

Maria LaPaige
Author
Maria LaPaige
Maria is a parenting expert and mother of three. She has written several books on parenting and child development, and has been featured in various parenting magazines. Maria's practical approach to family life has helped many parents navigate the ups and downs of raising children.