If you suspect your pet may have ingested a potentially toxic substance, call animal poison control at 888-426-4435 or contact your local veterinarian as soon as possible. Note: This is not a complete list and flowers can vary in color and size. Check here for a complete list of plants that are poisonous to cats and dogs.
A bouquet of flowers or a blooming garden can brighten up any home, but before you pick up or plant new buds this Earth Day, get familiar with 12 of the most common flowers that can cause harm – or death – if ingested by your beloved cat and/or dog. The variety of afflictions and symptoms each flower can cause varies widely. Please research your plants before exposing them to your pet(s).
Be aware of the following common flowers:
- Tulip
- Lilly (many varieties are very toxic to pets)
- Gladiola
- Daffodil (especially the bulbs)
- Begonia
- Amaryllis (especially the bulbs)
- Chrysanthemum
- Birds of Paradise (often in front/back yards)
- Baby’s Breath (common in bouquets)
- Azalea/Rhododendron
- Oleander
- Milkweed (often planted to attract butterflies)
Flower lovers fear not! There are many pet-safe flowers too. Some popular options are: African Violets, Roses, Orchids, Sunflowers, and Marigolds.