Roses, sunflowers, gerbera daisies, snapdragons, zinnias and moth orchids are all listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA, which makes them the safest choices for a home with pets. The flower to avoid at all costs is the lily: true lilies and daylilies can cause kidney failure in cats, even from a little pollen or a sip of vase water.
Pet-safe flowers for cats and dogs
These popular cut flowers appear on the ASPCA's non-toxic lists for both cats and dogs. "Non-toxic" means they are not poisonous, not that they are a snack: eating any plant can still upset a pet's stomach.
- Roses: safe, but the thorns can hurt curious paws and mouths.
- Sunflowers: cheerful, sturdy and pet-friendly.
- Gerbera daisies: bright and safe. Note that common daisies and chrysanthemums are not on the safe list.
- Snapdragons: tall, colourful spikes that are fine around pets.
- Zinnias: a summer favourite that is non-toxic.
- Moth orchids (Phalaenopsis): a long-lasting, pet-safe gift for a home.
- Freesia and China asters: fragrant or delicate fillers that are also non-toxic.
Flowers that are toxic to cats and dogs
| Flower | Risk to pets | How serious |
|---|---|---|
| True lilies (Lilium) and daylilies (Hemerocallis) | Kidney failure in cats from any part, pollen or vase water | Emergency for cats |
| Lily of the valley | Affects the heart in cats and dogs | Serious |
| Tulips and daffodils | Vomiting, drooling and diarrhea; the bulbs are the most toxic part | Moderate, can be serious |
| Hydrangeas | Vomiting and diarrhea | Mild to moderate |
| Chrysanthemums and carnations | Stomach upset and skin irritation | Mild |
| Baby's breath and eucalyptus | Stomach upset, drooling | Mild |
| Calla lilies and peace lilies | Mouth irritation, drooling (not true lilies) | Mild to moderate |
This is not a complete list. Before bringing a new plant or bouquet home, check the ASPCA's toxic and non-toxic plant lists.
Why lilies are so dangerous for cats
Lilies deserve their own warning. For cats, every part of a true lily or daylily is toxic: petals, leaves, stems, pollen and even the water in the vase. A cat can be poisoned simply by grooming pollen off its fur. Symptoms such as vomiting, drooling or hiding can appear within hours, and kidney failure can follow within a few days. Fast treatment makes a big difference.
If a cat may have touched or chewed a lily, call your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Do not wait for symptoms.
It is not just the flowers
A gift can carry other hazards for pets:
- Chocolate: chocolate-dipped strawberries and chocolate boxes are toxic to dogs and cats. Keep them well out of reach.
- Ribbons and string: cats love to chew them, and swallowed string can cause a dangerous blockage.
- Balloons: pieces of a popped balloon or its ribbon can be a choking hazard.
- Flower food and vase water: keep pets from drinking from the vase.
- Preserved roses: they are treated and dyed and are not meant to be chewed. Choose one under a dome or in a closed box if you have a curious cat.
Sending flowers to a home with pets in Ottawa
If you are sending flowers to someone with a cat or dog, mention it when you order. Call or text 819-208-3034 to confirm what is in a mixed bouquet, or choose an all-rose design. In an Ottawa winter, when pets spend more time indoors with nothing to do, a bouquet on the coffee table is extra tempting, so a high shelf is the best spot.
A preserved rose in a dome or acrylic box is a good lasting option for pet owners. We deliver across Ottawa with same-day delivery on many arrangements; see our flower delivery in Ottawa page for details.
Frequently asked questions
Are roses safe for cats?
Yes. The ASPCA lists roses as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Watch out for thorns and keep the vase water out of reach.
What flowers are poisonous to cats?
True lilies and daylilies are the most dangerous. Lily of the valley, tulips, daffodils, hydrangeas and chrysanthemums are also toxic.
Are tulips safe for dogs?
No. Tulips can cause vomiting and drooling in dogs and cats, and the bulbs are the most toxic part.
What should I do if my cat ate part of a lily?
Call your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately, even if your cat seems fine. Early treatment matters.
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