Plant safety record
American Holly
Ilex opaca
Prevent cats and dogs from accessing correctly identified Ilex opaca. Contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service after suspected exposure.
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Cats
TOXIC
ASPCA classifies American Holly, Ilex opaca, as toxic to cats.
Dogs
TOXIC
ASPCA classifies American Holly, Ilex opaca, as toxic to dogs.
Quick answer
ASPCA classifies Ilex opaca as toxic to cats and dogs, and botanical authorities confirm the American Holly species identity.
Plant identity and scope
This record is limited to Ilex opaca, the accepted species identified by Kew, ASPCA, and NC State Extension. ASPCA's cross-species holly aliases are deliberately not adopted as search aliases.
What the evidence supports
The toxic result is limited to Ilex opaca. English Holly, Oregon Grape Holly, Winterberry, Inkberry, and other holly-named plants require their own exact identities.
Safety classifications come from PawPlants' governed evidence record, not from a retailer or product label.
If exposure may have occurred
Prevent further access, retain a label or clear photo, and contact a veterinarian or animal poison-control service for case-specific advice. Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinary professional directs it.
Open PawPlants emergency guidance for immediate next steps and contact options.
Evidence and sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — American HollyCat: Toxic; Dog: Toxic; subject: Ilex opaca.
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew — Plants of the World Online — Ilex opacaEvidence subject: Ilex opaca.