What Flowers Are Safe Around Cats and Dogs?
Some of the most popular cut flowers are toxic to pets. Here is a practical guide to pet-safe bouquets and which flowers to avoid if you have cats or dogs.
If you have cats or dogs, flower safety is a real concern. Some of the most popular cut flowers are significantly toxic to pets. Here is what you need to know.
Flowers that are toxic to cats (avoid entirely)
Lilies are the most dangerous flower for cats. All parts of true lilies (Oriental, Asiatic, Easter, Tiger, and Daylilies) are highly toxic to cats. Even small amounts of pollen, water from the vase, or a nibbled petal can cause acute kidney failure. This is a medical emergency. If your cat has any contact with lilies, call a vet immediately.
Tulips are also toxic to cats and dogs, primarily in the bulb but the stems and leaves contain lower concentrations of the same compounds. Symptoms include drooling, nausea, and lethargy.
Hyacinths are toxic, especially the bulbs, but stems and flowers also contain toxic compounds. Can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats and dogs.
Daffodils are toxic to both cats and dogs. The bulb is the most concentrated part, but all parts of the plant contain lycorine, which causes vomiting, diarrhea, and in large amounts, more serious effects.
Flowers that are generally safe for cats and dogs
Roses are non-toxic to both cats and dogs. The thorns are a physical hazard, but the flowers and leaves themselves are safe if chewed. Roses are one of the best choices for pet households.
Sunflowers are safe for both cats and dogs. The petals, stems, and leaves are non-toxic, though eating large amounts may cause mild stomach upset.
Orchids (Phalaenopsis varieties, most common as cut flowers) are non-toxic to cats and dogs. A safe and beautiful option.
Snapdragons are non-toxic to both cats and dogs.
Lisianthus (eustoma) is considered non-toxic for pets.
Alstroemeria (Peruvian lily) is sometimes listed as mildly toxic to cats and dogs, causing mild digestive upset if eaten. Not in the same category as true lilies, but worth keeping out of reach.
What about carnations and chrysanthemums?
Carnations are mildly toxic to cats and dogs. They can cause mild skin irritation and digestive upset but are not considered severely dangerous. Chrysanthemums (mums) are also mildly toxic, causing vomiting, diarrhea, and coordination problems if eaten in quantity. Neither is likely to cause a serious emergency, but both are best kept out of reach.
Practical tips for pet households
Place flower arrangements on high shelves or surfaces that cats cannot reach. Remember that cats are climbers and can access most surfaces in a home. A florist's foam-topped shelf is not a barrier to a determined cat.
When ordering flowers for someone who has cats, specify "no lilies" or ask for a "pet-safe arrangement." A knowledgeable florist will be able to create a beautiful bouquet that does not include any high-risk flowers.
If you are ever unsure whether your pet ate something from a bouquet, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline (1-888-426-4435) and the Pet Poison Helpline are both available 24 hours a day.
The short version
If you have cats: avoid all true lilies without exception. For everything else, roses, sunflowers, and orchids are your safest bets. If you have dogs, the same list applies with slightly more flexibility on the lily question (true lilies are less catastrophically dangerous for dogs but still not safe). When in doubt, keep all arrangements out of reach.