Pet owners are being warned about Valentine’s Day gifts that could harm animals.
Experts at Trusted Housesitters have spoken to vets to determine the biggest risks facing our pets. Angela Laws, community manager, said: "While Valentine’s is a great time to celebrate that special someone in your life, keep a close eye on your furry friend and take extra care that any gifts, flowers or wrapping paper you buy are safe and pet-friendly.
"If you do notice any strange symptoms, keep a close eye on your pet and get straight in touch with a vet for expert advice." To keep pets safe, here are six potentially dangerous gifts all owners should be aware of on Valentine’s Day, reports Wales Online.
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Lillies
They may be stunning to look at, but lillies are a definite no-no for anyone with a pet. Vet Amanda Takiguchi DVM, explained: "A common flower that veterinarians warn cat owners against is lilies. Even eating a small amount of this flower can cause deadly kidney failure in cats.
"Multiple species of lilies are toxic to cats, so it’s best to avoid lilies altogether. Owners need to be especially cautious around Easter when these flowers are more popular.
“While similar in name, Lily of the Valley flowers do not cause acute kidney failure like true lily species. Regardless, Lily of the Valley flowers are highly toxic to both dogs and cats. If ingested, this flower can cause seizures and dangerous abnormalities in heart rate and rhythm.”
Chocolate
Chocolate is perhaps the best-known hazard to pets but remains one of the most common issues faced by vets. All forms of chocolate are toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, birds and rabbits.
Chocolate contains an alkaloid, theobromine, that your pets can’t metabolise. At best, it can lead to sickness and diarrhoea; at worst, it can be fatal.
Tulips
While a stunning choice for a bouquet, stay away from tulips if you have a cat or dog at home. This flower is toxic for both cats and dogs.
Daffodils
This spring plant is extremely poisonous for many pets, including cats and dogs. Your canine or feline friend will experience severe vomiting and health concerns if they ingest any part of a daffodil, but the bulb is particularly poisonous.
Roses
While roses themselves aren’t toxic, the thorns on the stems can puncture through pets' skin and cause injury. Even worse, if they’re ingested, they can lead to internal punctures and cause serious problems. Make sure the stems and thorns are removed.
Sweet pea and ‘filler’ flowers
Veterinary technician Lauri Partanio said: "Sweet pea contains a toxic chemical called aminopropionitrile. If consumed by your pet, it can cause seizures, full body weakness, and even death."
Safe flowers for pets include sunflowers, petunias, freesia, pitto, snapdragons, orchids, pansies, zinnias and gerbera daisies.
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