Pet-Safe Flowers: Non-Toxic Plants for Cat & Dog Owners
Love flowers but worried about your furry friends? Here's your complete guide to beautiful blooms that won't harm your pets—plus the dangerous ones to avoid.
Many common flowers are toxic to cats and dogs. The good news? Plenty of beautiful pet-safe flowers exist so you can have gorgeous bouquets and a safe home for your four-legged family members.
Important Note
While these flowers are considered non-toxic, any plant material can cause mild stomach upset if eaten in quantity. Keep all flowers out of reach when possible, and contact your vet if you notice unusual symptoms.
Safe Flowers for Cats & Dogs
Roses
Classic and safe! Just remove thorns to prevent injuries.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
Sunflowers
Bright, cheerful, and completely non-toxic. Great for pet-safe arrangements.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
Gerbera Daisies
Colorful and pet-friendly. A perfect choice for bright bouquets.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
Orchids (Phalaenopsis)
Elegant and non-toxic. The moth orchid is safe for pets.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
Snapdragons
Fun, colorful spikes that are completely safe.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
Zinnias
Bold colors, long vase life, and pet-safe.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
Petunias
Garden favorites that pose no threat to pets.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
Camellias
Beautiful blooms safe for curious pets.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
African Violets
Perfect pet-safe houseplant with lovely blooms.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
Celosia
Unique texture and completely safe for pets.
Safe for: Cats, Dogs
Toxic Flowers to Avoid
These common flowers can cause serious harm—from mild stomach upset to organ failure. Keep them away from pets entirely.
Lilies (ALL types)
Extremely toxic to cats! Even small amounts can cause kidney failure. Includes Easter, Tiger, Asiatic, and Daylilies.
EMERGENCY: Seek vet care immediately
Tulips & Hyacinths
Bulbs are most toxic, but all parts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems.
Toxic to: Cats, Dogs
Daffodils
Contains lycorine. Causes vomiting, diarrhea, and can affect heart rhythm.
Toxic to: Cats, Dogs
Oleander
Extremely toxic. Even small amounts can be fatal. All parts of the plant are dangerous.
Toxic to: Cats, Dogs, Horses, Humans
Azaleas & Rhododendrons
Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and cardiac problems.
Toxic to: Cats, Dogs
Chrysanthemums
Causes vomiting, diarrhea, and skin irritation. Commonly used in fall arrangements.
Toxic to: Cats, Dogs
Hydrangeas
Contains cyanide compounds. Causes vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Toxic to: Cats, Dogs
Lily of the Valley
Contains cardiac glycosides. Can cause heart arrhythmias and death.
Toxic to: Cats, Dogs
Tips for Pet Owners
- 1Request pet-safe arrangements
Tell your florist you have pets. Most will happily create arrangements using only safe flowers.
- 2Place flowers out of reach
Even safe flowers are best kept where curious pets can't knock them over or nibble on them.
- 3Watch the water
Flower water with additives or from toxic plants can make pets sick. Keep vases covered or inaccessible.
- 4Know the signs of poisoning
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, difficulty breathing, or lethargy warrant immediate vet attention.
What to Do If Your Pet Eats a Toxic Plant
- 1. Stay calm and remove any remaining plant material from your pet's mouth
- 2. Identify the plant if possible—take a photo or bring a sample
- 3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
- 4. Do NOT induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a professional
- 5. Monitor your pet for symptoms and follow professional guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dried flowers safer than fresh?
Not necessarily. Toxic plants remain toxic when dried. The same rules apply for both fresh and dried flowers.
My cat ate a lily petal. Is that serious?
YES, this is an emergency. Even tiny amounts of lily can cause fatal kidney failure in cats. Get to a vet immediately—don't wait for symptoms.
Are roses really safe for pets?
Rose petals and stems are non-toxic. However, thorns can cause mouth and stomach injuries if swallowed. Remove thorns and keep roses out of reach when possible.
You don't have to choose between beautiful flowers and pet safety. With plenty of pet-safe flowers available, you can fill your home with stunning blooms while keeping your furry family members protected.
Local Flower Team
Local Flower
The Local Flower team is dedicated to helping you discover beautiful blooms and connect with talented florists in your area.