Pet-Friendly Blooms: Flowers Safe for Cats and Dogs

Floral arrangements can bring a touch of nature into our homes, but for pet owners, it’s crucial to be aware of which ones are safe and which could be harmful to our furry friends. This blog post will delve into flowers that are either safe or toxic to cats and dogs, and overall pet-safe practices for bringing plants into your home. 

Flowers & Plants Safe for Cats and Dogs 

As pet owners, we often worry about our cats and dogs nibbling on houseplants. Luckily, there are several pet-safe options to brighten up your home without the risk. Some popular pet-safe flowers and plants include:

• Roses 
• Phalaenopsis Orchid
• Lisianthus: 
• African Violet
• Spider Plant
• Echeveria (succulent)
• Boston Fern
• Bromeliad
• Christmas Cactus
• Peperomia
• Prayer Plant
• Alstroemeria
• Daisies
• Sunflower
• Roses
• Snapdragons

Flowers Toxic to Cats and Dogs 

On the other hand, some common flowers can be sadly dangerous to our furry friends. Here are a few types of blooms to avoid when you’re shopping for your next bouquet:

• Lilies: All parts of the lily plant are highly toxic to cats and dogs and can cause kidney failure. It’s best not to bring these ones into your home at all.
• Tulips: The bulb of the tulip is particularly harmful to cats and dogs, leading to gastrointestinal upset.
• Azaleas: Even a few bites of this plant can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, a drop in blood pressure in your furry friends. 
• Carnations: These popular flowers contain mild toxins that can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets if ingested.
• Poinsettias: While not as toxic as often believed, poinsettias can cause irritation to the mouth and stomach, and sometimes vomiting, when eaten by pets.
• Chrysanthemums (Mums): These common garden flowers contain compounds that, if ingested, can lead to vomiting and diarrhoea in pets.

Remember—this list is not exhaustive. To play it safe, follow the instructions for pet-safe practices below. 

Pet Safe Practices for Purchasing Plants & Flowers 

To prevent your pet from eating something toxic, it’s essential to think ahead when buying plants and flowers for your home. Try following these pet-safe practices: 

Research Before Buying

Always research or consult with a vet before introducing a new plant or flower into your home. Great sources to reference online include the ASPCA or PetMD. 

Place Plants Out of Reach

Keep potentially harmful plants on high shelves or in rooms that are off-limits to pets. Of course, this can be tricky when it comes to cats, so it’s best to avoid toxic plants altogether if there’s a risk they can come in contact. 

Watch for Symptoms

If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, look for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, or lethargy. Then make sure to follow the instructions below. 

What To Do If Your Pet Eats a Toxic Plant

If your pet does happen to ingest a toxic plant, it’s important to act quickly. Remove any plant material from their mouth or fur, and contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison helpline. Provide details about the plant consumed and observe your pet closely for any signs of distress, as prompt veterinary attention can be crucial in preventing more severe health complications.

By being mindful of the flowers we bring into our homes, we can create a safe environment for both our pets and ourselves. Remember, while some plants are safe for cats, they might not be safe for dogs, and vice versa. Always err on the side of caution and choose pet-safe options to keep your furry family members healthy and happy.