As Valentine’s Day looms, the tradition of gifting flowers to loved ones will see a surge. However, if you or your recipient have pets, it’s crucial to avoid certain blooms.
Many popular flowers and plants can be highly toxic to dogs and cats, according to a leading vet. Certain species can cause discomfort or even severe health problems in pets, so they should be avoided at all costs.
Sean McCormack, the head vet at dog food retailer Tails.com, pointed out that pets are naturally curious and will investigate anything new brought into the home, including flowers and plants.
To save a trip to the vet or hefty bills, Sean has listed five flowers and plants that pet owners should steer clear of.
Carnations
These are widely available in supermarkets, making them an easy choice for a last-minute Valentine’s Day gift. But not only might your partner deem you “cheap” for choosing these budget-friendly flowers, they’re also mildly toxic to dogs, reports the Express.
Sean explained that while the specific irritants causing this toxicity are unknown, whether in the petals or stem, it’s best not to risk it. If ingested, carnations can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs.
Lilies
Sean also issued a warning about lilies, a flower symbolising devotion and beauty, making it a popular choice for Valentine’s Day. However, these flowers are toxic to dogs and cats and can even be fatal in some cases.
Certain species of lilies contain insoluble oxalate crystals that can severely irritate the intestinal system.
If ingested, lilies can cause serious conditions such as kidney failures, seizures, slowed heart rate, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Daffodils
Daffodils, while beautiful, are highly toxic to dogs. The bulbs of these flowers are particularly harmful as they contain lycorine and other dangerous compounds.
Consuming these compounds in large quantities can lead to severe cardiac symptoms.
Sean warned that dogs who ingest daffodils may experience abdominal pain, low blood pressure, arrhythmias and even diarrhoea.
Roses
Roses, although a romantic staple, might not be the best choice if your Valentine has a pet. While not toxic, the thorns can physically harm a dog’s mouth, gums, throat and digestive tract if swallowed.
Sean emphasised that if left untreated, this can result in cuts, internal blockages, and even infections.
He added: “If roses that have been dethorned have been ingested, particularly by dogs with sensitive stomachs, they may experience mild symptoms. These symptoms should resolve within a day, but it’s always wise to consult a vet if concerned.”
Tulips
Tulips, with their timeless appeal and variety of colours, are a favourite choice for Valentine’s Day gifts. However, they can be harmful to dogs due to the presence of tulipalin A and B in their bulbs, compounds that can irritate a dog’s stomach lining.
If consumed, tulips can cause drooling, tremors, breathing difficulties and vomiting.
Safer alternatives
Sean has also suggested some alternative flower options for those wishing to gift their pet-loving Valentine with blooms that won’t pose a risk to their cat or dog. These include:
- Chinese money plant
- Rattlesnake plant
- Spider plant
- Bird’s Nest fern
- Orchid
- Fishbone cactus