Valentine’s Day is around the corner again. Next Friday (February 14th), couples around the world will be celebrating each other with flowers, chocolates, candlelight dinners and date nights.
If you’ll be buying a loved one flowers this Valentine’s Day, however, it’s important to remember that some popular flowers can be harmful to pets. So, whether you and your partner have a pet together or you’re dating a big cat or dog person, it’s best to check beforehand that your gift can be fully appreciated (and you could even try out these Valentine’s Day treat recipes for their dog, too).
That’s why Sean McCormack, head vet at Tails.com, has shared the 10 most important flowers to avoid gifting to pet parents to prevent poorly pets, trips to the vet, and expensive vet bills.
Flowers toxic to pets
First up are amaryllis, azaleas, hyacinths, baby’s breath, and chrysanthemums – all toxic to pets – plus these five classic Valentine’s Day choices:
1. Carnations: These flowers are mildly toxic to dogs. While we don’t know what it is about carnations that make them toxic, they’re best avoided. They can cause vomiting and diarrhea when ingested.
2. Lilies: These are popular Valentine’s Day flowers, but they’re toxic to both cats and dogs. In some cases, ingesting lilies can be fatal, though it does depend on the species of lily. Other issues can include vomiting, diarrhea, slowed heart rate, seizures, and kidney failure.
3. Daffodils: While these can be a sweet Valentine’s choice, daffodil bulbs in particular are highly toxic to dogs. Ingestion can cause abdominal pain, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and diarrhea.
4. Roses: Nobody wants to hear that roses aren’t a good idea for Valentine’s Day, do they? They aren’t toxic, however, and can still be gifted to pet parents if the thorns are removed. When ingested, thorns can cause injuries and internal blockages, as well as infections when injuries aren’t treated.
If dethorned roses have been ingested, pets with sensitive stomachs might experience mild symptoms. These shouldn’t last longer than a day, but it’s always best to speak to a vet if you’re worried.
5. Tulips: Another classic romantic flower, tulips are unfortunately moderately toxic to dogs. Tulip bulbs contain tulipalin A and B, which can irritate a dog’s stomach lining, while symptoms may include excessive drooling, tremors, breathing difficulties and vomiting.
If you’d like some alternatives, McCormack suggests plants like the Chinese money plant, rattlesnake plant, spider plant, bird’s nest fern, orchid, and fishbone cactus. And, as he puts it, “It’s always a good idea to research pet-safe plants and flowers when gifting to households with pets. Not only does this ensure the safety of beloved animals, but it also shows extra thoughtfulness in your Valentine’s Day gift.”
Now we’re in February, it might be a good idea to take a look at these spring plants that are toxic to dogs, too. And, don’t forget these cat friendly house plants, which would certainly make a great gift.
Need some other gift ideas? Check our out guides to the best gifts for cat lovers and best gifts for dog lovers!
